Meta has announced a significant $8 billion investment in overhauling its privacy infrastructure over the past six years, according to Michel Protti, Meta's Chief Privacy and Compliance Officer for Product.
The company has implemented several key privacy features across its platforms. Meta has rolled out default end-to-end encryption for personal messages to most global Messenger users, along with introducing "view-once" functionality for photos and videos. For its Quest 3S headset, Meta launched a privacy indicator system that alerts users when privacy-related features are active.
The social media giant has also introduced Instagram Teen Accounts, which incorporate built-in protections limiting teen contact and content visibility. Additionally, Meta enhanced its Download Your Information tool to include comprehensive data logs about Facebook usage and recommendations.
Privacy Review Process and Infrastructure
Meta's privacy review system now evaluates an average of 1,400 products, features, and data practices monthly. The company has developed a Privacy Aware Infrastructure that embeds privacy rules directly into code, automating the protection of hundreds of millions of data pieces.
Regulatory Compliance and Future Commitment
The privacy overhaul was initiated following a $5 billion settlement with the Federal Trade Commission in 2019. Meta currently employs over 3,000 personnel focused primarily on privacy matters and works with external experts, including the Reality Labs Policy Advisory Council, to guide its privacy and policy development.
The company states these investments are crucial for maintaining competitiveness while meeting increasing regulatory obligations across hundreds of global data protection laws.
