LinkedIn to Restrict Targeted Ads in the EU

LinkedIn will no longer allow advertisers to target users based on data from LinkedIn Groups, according to a report by TechCrunch.

What Happened

In February, a coalition of civil society organizations filed a complaint against LinkedIn with the European Commission (EC) regarding a potential violation of the Digital Services Act (DSA). In response, the EC requested that the social network provide additional information about its possible use of sensitive data (such as race, political beliefs, or sexual orientation) in targeted advertising.

Evidently, to halt the investigation at an early stage, LinkedIn decided to remove the ability for advertisers to create ad audiences in Europe using data about LinkedIn Group membership.

However, the company stated that it does not agree that its platform violates the DSA or allows advertisers to use sensitive data.

It is worth noting that the EC has also launched an in-depth investigation into Facebook and Instagram. The regulator is concerned about the functioning of social media algorithms, alleging they may cause addiction in children.