LinkedIn to restrict targeted ads in EU following complaint about sensitive data usage

LinkedIn has made a significant change to its advertising policies, announcing that it will no longer allow advertisers to target users based on data obtained from their participation in LinkedIn Groups. This decision comes after a complaint was filed with the European Commission regarding a potential violation of the Digital Services Act.

The move is seen as a proactive step by LinkedIn to address concerns raised by civil society groups and the EC about the use of sensitive personal data for targeted advertising. Despite maintaining compliance with the DSA, LinkedIn has chosen to remove the ability for advertisers to create advertising audiences in Europe using LinkedIn Group membership data.

Patrick Corrigan, LinkedIn’s VP for legal and digital safety, emphasized the company’s commitment to preventing any misconceptions about the use of special categories of data for advertising purposes. The change is effective immediately for all new advertising campaigns on the platform.

The European Commission has welcomed LinkedIn’s decision, with EU internal market commissioner Thierry Breton stating that the DSA is delivering positive change in the online space. This development comes on the heels of the EC designating Chinese e-commerce marketplace Temu as a “very large online platform” under DSA regulations, subjecting it to additional scrutiny.

Overall, LinkedIn’s decision to restrict targeted advertising based on LinkedIn Group data reflects a broader trend towards increased transparency and accountability in the digital advertising industry. The company’s proactive approach to addressing regulatory concerns is a step in the right direction for ensuring user privacy and data protection.