Dutch Court Orders Meta to Simplify User Options on Facebook and Instagram

A Dutch court has taken a significant step in digital rights by ordering Meta Platforms to make its social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, more user-friendly. Specifically, users should have easier options to choose a timeline not dependent on profiling.

The court's decision pointed out that current design features on both platforms are not compliant with the European Union's Digital Services Act. Meta has been given a two-week deadline to implement a 'direct and simple' method for users to opt-out of a recommended content timeline and ensure these settings remain permanent.

Highlighting the urgency of the matter, the court criticized the platforms' automatic reversion to profiled timelines as a 'dark pattern' that infringes on the freedom of information. With an upcoming election in the Netherlands, the decision reflects a drive to give users more control over their informational landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)