EU investigates Instagram over handling of children's data

Instagram is being investigated by Ireland's Data Protection Commissioner over its handling of children's personal data on the platform. The Irish regulator is investigating whether Facebook has a legal basis for processing children's personal data and if it employs adequate protections and restrictions on Instagram for children. "Instagram is a social media platform which is used widely by children in Ireland and across Europe," said Graham Doyle, a deputy commissioner with DPC. "The DPC has been actively monitoring complaints received from individuals in this area and has identified potential concerns in relation to the processing of children's personal data on Instagram which require further examination." In February 2019, data scientist David Stier analysed profiles of almost 200,000 Instagram users across the world. Instagram business accounts require users to display their phone numbers and email addresses publicly, meaning that personal data belonging to many users is visible to other Instagram users.

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