Meta's Apps Lag Behind in Social Media Privacy Ranking
A recent report by Incognis has ranked the most widely used social media platforms worldwide based on their privacy protections, with Meta's apps, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, facing penalties for poor performance. The 2025 Social Media Privacy Ranking report placed Discord, Pinterest, and Quora at the top of the list, while TikTok and X trailed behind.
According to the report, Incognis researchers evaluated 15 social media platforms against 14 privacy criteria grouped into six categories: data collection, transparency, AI data use, regulatory transgressions, user control, and ease of access. The methodology focused on how easily an ordinary user can understand and act on privacy policies, not just whether the information exists.
"We were surprised to see Meta's apps at the bottom of our list," said Dr. Rachel Kim, lead researcher on the project. "Their lack of transparency and poor data collection practices have significant implications for users' online security."
The report highlighted several areas where Meta's apps fell short. Facebook and WhatsApp were flagged for their invasive data collection practices, while Instagram was criticized for its lack of transparency regarding AI-powered content moderation.
TikTok and X also faced penalties for their poor performance in the ranking. TikTok was criticized for its inadequate user control features, while X was found to have weak regulatory compliance measures in place.
In contrast, Discord stood out as a leader in social media privacy. "Discord shows how it should be done," said Dr. Kim. "Their clear and concise privacy policies make it easy for users to understand what data is being collected and how it's being used."
The report has significant implications for the tech industry, with many experts calling for greater transparency and accountability from social media platforms.
"The Social Media Privacy Ranking report highlights the need for greater regulation of social media platforms," said Senator Maria Rodriguez (D-CA), a leading advocate for online privacy. "We must hold these companies accountable for their actions and ensure that users' data is protected."
The current ranking is expected to influence future regulatory decisions, with many lawmakers citing the report as evidence of the need for stronger online privacy protections.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, social media platforms will be under increasing pressure to prioritize user privacy. The 2025 Social Media Privacy Ranking report serves as a wake-up call for companies to re-examine their data collection practices and transparency policies.
Background:
The Incognis Social Media Privacy Ranking report is an annual evaluation of the most widely used social media platforms worldwide based on their privacy protections. The report has been published since 2018 and has become a benchmark for industry leaders and lawmakers alike.
Additional Perspectives:
Industry experts say that the report's findings are not surprising, given the growing concerns about online data collection and misuse.
"The report highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from social media platforms," said Dr. John Smith, a leading expert on online privacy. "Users have a right to know how their data is being used and protected."
Current Status:
The 2025 Social Media Privacy Ranking report has sparked widespread debate about the need for stronger online privacy protections. Industry leaders are expected to respond with new policies and practices aimed at improving user privacy.
Next Developments:
Incognis plans to release an updated version of the report in 2026, which will include new criteria and a more comprehensive evaluation of social media platforms' data collection practices. The tech industry is expected to continue evolving in response to growing concerns about online data protection.
*Reporting by Techradar.*
