LinkedIn privacy complaint EU raises questions over paywalled user data
Synopsis
LinkedIn privacy complaint EU regulators are examining whether a premium feature revealing profile viewers meets GDPR rules. The complaint questions consent, transparency, and whether such data should be freely accessible. It follows earlier enforcement and adds to ongoing scrutiny of data practices across major platforms.
LinkedIn privacy complaint EU targets a premium feature showing profile viewers. Regulators are assessing GDPR compliance on consent and access rights, adding to scrutiny of platform data practices.
Key Highlights
- LinkedIn privacy complaint EU challenges premium feature revealing profile viewers behind subscription paywall
- NOYB argues GDPR access rights should allow users free access to their personal data
- Case follows €310 million fine over earlier advertising and data processing violations
- Raises broader concerns around consent, transparency, and cross-border data handling practices
LinkedIn privacy complaint EU regulators are reviewing a fresh case that challenges how the platform uses personal data within its premium subscription features.
The complaint, filed in Austria by privacy group NOYB, focuses on whether LinkedIn complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) when allowing paid users to see profile visitors.
The LinkedIn privacy complaint, the EU claims that individuals who view profiles may have their activity disclosed without explicit consent. It also raises concerns about whether such data access should be restricted to paid subscribers.
Feature at the centre of scrutiny
At the core of the LinkedIn privacy complaint, the EU is a premium tool that provides visibility into profile views. This feature is commonly used by recruiters and professionals tracking engagement on the platform.
NOYB argues that if LinkedIn processes this information, users should be able to access it without payment under GDPR rights. The LinkedIn privacy complaint EU questions whether limiting access behind a subscription aligns with data access and transparency requirements.
Regulatory track record and enforcement trends
The LinkedIn privacy complaint in the EU follows earlier regulatory action against the platform. In 2024, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission imposed a €310 million fine on LinkedIn over issues related to targeted advertising and data processing.
Across Europe, GDPR enforcement has intensified, with total fines exceeding €4 billion since 2018, based on publicly available regulatory data. The current LinkedIn privacy complaint in the EU reflects continued scrutiny of how digital platforms handle consent and personal data.
Scale of operations and data reliance
The LinkedIn privacy complaint in the EU also highlights the broader scale of data-driven services. LinkedIn operates in more than 200 countries and territories, with data often processed across multiple jurisdictions through its parent company, Microsoft.
Microsoft reported about $245 billion in revenue for fiscal year 2024. LinkedIn contributes through recruitment tools, advertising, and premium subscriptions, all of which rely on user data. Global digital advertising spending is projected to cross $700 billion in 2026, according to Statista.
LinkedIn said it complies with applicable laws and provides users with controls over their data and privacy settings.
FAQs
Q1. What is the LinkedIn privacy complaint EU about?
It challenges a premium feature that reveals profile viewers, questioning consent and GDPR compliance.
Q2. Who filed the complaint against LinkedIn?
The complaint was filed in Austria by privacy group NOYB with European data protection authorities.
Q3. Why is the premium feature being questioned?
It may disclose personal data of profile visitors without explicit consent or clear transparency.
Q4. Has LinkedIn faced similar issues before?
Yes, LinkedIn was fined €310 million in 2024 over advertising-related data processing violations under GDPR.
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Pooja Malik is a business journalist with over six years of experience covering startups, entrepreneurship, and emerging trends. She has previously worked with leading media platforms such as YourStory Media and BW BusinessWorld, where she reported on business, policy, and market developments. Currently, she serves as Editor at The Inspirepreneur Magazine, where she writes and edits stories across business, lifestyle, and travel, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and reader relevance.
