Lawmaker criticized company for risking privacy of users, especially teens, with new privacy policies

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), co-Chair of the Bi-Partisan Congressional Privacy Caucus, released the following statement after Instagram announced it was reversing course on its previously announced plan to alter its Terms of Service, which could have allowed the company to use photographs, even those of teenagers, for use in advertisements without user knowledge or permission. Rep. Markey released a statement earlier this week criticizing Instagram after it released an updated version of its privacy policy and terms of service.

“I am pleased that Instagram decided to cancel its plan to alter its Terms of Service before users had to cancel their accounts in order to protect their privacy.  Consumers, not corporations, should have control over their personal information, especially that of children and teenagers. I hope Instagram continues to prioritize privacy over profit and ensure that users’ personal information is protected and not used or sold without permission.”

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