Observed Signal · Nov 26, 2021 · Policy Update · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
EU to ban political ads targeting sensitive data
The European Commission proposed a law to prohibit political ads that target individuals using sensitive personal data such as ethnicity, religion, health status, or sexual orientation. The draft would require advertisers to disclose the data criteria used for targeting and to publish funding details, including who paid, how much, and the ad's connection to elections. The aim is to increase transparency and reduce manipulation, ensuring users understand why they see a political ad and who funds it. EC Vice-President Vera Jourová emphasized transparency of payments and targeting. The move follows prior industry actions where Meta removed or paused sensitive-targeting options before elections. The proposal had been expected to take effect in spring 2023.
Regulatory proposal from the European Commission affecting political ad targeting and transparency in AdTech.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- The European Commission proposed a law banning political ads that target based on sensitive personal data.
- Banned data categories include ethnicity, religion, health status, and sexual orientation.
- Advertisers would need to disclose targeting data criteria and funding details (who paid, amount, link to elections).
- Vera Jourová commented on the transparency requirements and funding disclosures.
- Meta, Facebook, and Google had previously paused or removed sensitive-targeting options ahead of elections.
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