Amazon Faces Mass Legal Action In Netherlands
Amazon, the global e-commerce giant, has come under scrutiny in the Netherlands. Stichting Data Bescherming Nederland, a Dutch foundation focused on data protection, is gearing up to take legal action against Amazon for allegedly tracking and collecting excessive personal data from millions of Dutch users. This move comes amid growing concerns over data privacy as digital services become increasingly embedded in our daily lives.
The foundation asserts that even after users have declined permission, Amazon continues to monitor their online activities. It suspects that Amazon extends its reach beyond its platform boundaries by keeping tabs on user activities on other platforms through tracking cookies. For instance, when customers browse properties on Funda or plan holidays and family trips across different websites where Amazon advertises, they might not be alone.
Amazon is distinct from other tech giants like Facebook or Twitter in this context. These social media companies offer free services in return for access to customer data. Conversely, Amazon operates as an e-commerce platform with paying customers. The foundation believes these circumstances make the company’s alleged practices particularly egregious.
Amazon doesn’t accept these accusations lightly and maintains it hasn’t breached any laws. They’ve received the claims and are currently reviewing them with plans to respond shortly. This incident follows a previous ruling where a Dutch court found Facebook guilty of violating privacy rules while handling personal data. As we await further developments, this situation serves as another reminder about the importance of understanding our digital footprints and asserting control over our personal information online.
Source: Data protection group threatens mass claim against Amazon
