**Meta Prepares for Compliance with India’s Data Privacy Law**
Meta Platforms Inc. is gearing up to comply with India’s forthcoming data privacy legislation, the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, which is set to be implemented soon. Rob Sherman, Meta’s vice-president of policy and deputy chief privacy officer, indicated that the company has initiated its assessment of the law while engaging in discussions with the government regarding its comprehensive restrictions on tracking users under the age of 18.
Sherman emphasized that while Meta is aligning its operations in India with the new regulations, the company’s ability to monitor online behavior for safety purposes could be compromised by the law’s blanket restrictions. He stated, “We share India’s goal of keeping people safe online, but the current definition of protecting underage users presents a significant gap that needs to be addressed.”
Meta has been actively providing feedback to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) regarding the DPDP Act, particularly expressing concerns about the implications of the tracking restrictions. A senior government official noted that Meity is currently reviewing this feedback, with enforcement of the law expected within two to three months.
Sherman highlighted the complexity of ensuring compliance with the DPDP Act, noting that it requires a tailored consent experience for users in India. He remarked, “There are unique requirements in different laws around the world, and we have developed an internal process called regulatory readiness to adapt our products accordingly.”
As Meta navigates these regulatory challenges, the company remains committed to enhancing child safety online while advocating for a balanced approach that allows for necessary monitoring of harmful activities.
**FAQ**
*What is the DPDP Act?*
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act is India’s first comprehensive data privacy law aimed at regulating the processing of personal data and ensuring the protection of individuals’ privacy rights.