The Bundeskartellamt has launched a sector inquiry into messenger services under consumer protection law.
Andreas Mundt, President of the Bundeskartellamt stated, “As a communication channel messenger services have become an integral part of consumers’ everyday lives. However, it is questionable whether and to what extent these services protect personal data. We would like to clarify this issue and provide information on possible violations of consumer rights. Furthermore, in most cases it is not possible for users to communicate with each other by using different messenger services. We will therefore also examine whether and to what extent improved interoperability could play a role in, for example, the consumers’ choice of suppliers which offer better data protection.”
Messenger services enable consumers to send text messages, photos, and videos or make telephone calls via the internet. Surveys and media reports have repeatedly pointed out possible violations of consumer protection law in this sector. In some cases, the way in which established messenger services manage the personal data of their users could be in violation of applicable data protection rules.
more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.
Featured News
Compass Lexecon Expands EMEA Presence with Opening of Lisbon Office
May 6, 2024 by
CPI
EU Extends Support for Farms and Fisheries Amid Market Disruptions
May 5, 2024 by
CPI
Sony and Apollo Bid $26 Billion for Paramount Acquisition
May 5, 2024 by
CPI
Goldman Sachs Resolves Decade-Old Metal-Rigging Class Action Lawsuit
May 5, 2024 by
CPI
Italian Antitrust Ruling Puts Halt on Intesa Sanpaolo’s Fintech Ambitions
May 5, 2024 by
CPI
Antitrust Mix by CPI
Antitrust Chronicle® – Economics of Criminal Antitrust
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
Navigating Economic Expert Work in Criminal Antitrust Litigation
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
The Increased Importance of Economics in Cartel Cases
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
A Law and Economics Analysis of the Antitrust Treatment of Physician Collective Price Agreements
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI
Information Exchange In Criminal Antitrust Cases: How Economic Testimony Can Tip The Scales
Apr 19, 2024 by
CPI