Meta plans to change its business rules on November 20. The new rules will allow Meta to use automated software to collect information from websites. EBU wants Meta to change these rules.
EBU says that public media should not be forced to give its content to Meta. Currently, media must be on Meta platforms for people to see their content. EBU wants Meta to allow opt-out from data collection without penalties.
Meta's latest changes do not solve the problem. Meta can still use media content for its artificial intelligence. This raises concerns. Media uses a lot of material that they cannot pass on to others, such as music or photos. The new rules claim rights to original content immediately.
EBU welcomes the European Commission and the United Kingdom monitoring the situation. EBU wants Meta to change the rules before they come into effect.
EBU wants two major changes. First, a business account should not automatically allow Meta to use public media content. Permissions should only apply to the account owner's content.
Second, account owners should be able to opt out of data collection without leaving the platform. There should also be no restrictions associated with this. EBU wants artificial intelligence not to use media content without clear permission.
EBU Legal Director Richard Burnley says the union expects Meta to change the rules. He wants media to be able to decide for itself how its content is used. EBU will continue to collaborate with media to ensure content is only used with permission.