Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, announced that it would partially block access to news in Canada. This measure is a response to the law on online information approved by the Senate, which provides that “big technologies” pay the media for the content they share on their platforms.
In a note, Meta explained that companies will be able to post news links and content on the platforms, but not all will be accessible to the Canadian public. This is not the first time that a similar measure has been taken by the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. According to the Associated Press, Meta did not provide details on the timeline for the change, but said it would remove local news from its platforms before the law takes effect in six months.
“We have repeatedly shared that, to comply with Bill C-18, passed by Parliament today, content from media outlets, including publishers and news broadcasters, will no longer be accessible to individuals accessing to our platforms in Canada. » confirmed Lisa Laventurecommunications manager at Target in Canada.
According to The Verge, Google even tested blocking information for certain Canadian users before the law was approved, but now wants to negotiate with the government to find a possible solution.
The blockade has had repercussions on neighboring social networks, such as Twitter:
Meta is a private American company. The Government of Canada does not have any meta-demand laws.
– AnneF (@AnneFroment) June 23, 2023
Considering what Meta just did in Canada… Zuck has already lost.
– Chaos Memer (@Chaos_Memer) June 23, 2023
“Pop culture fan. Coffee expert. Bacon nerd. Infuriatingly humble communicator. Friendly gamer.”
