Illegal tracking – compensation of up to €10,000 possible
Berlin/Munich, July 21, 2025 – The technology company Meta (formerly Facebook Inc.), operator of Facebook and Instagram, is once again under scrutiny for data protection violations. The allegations stem from claims that Meta collects personal information from users – even when they are not logged in and have disabled tracking in their browser. Numerous courts consider this a clear violation of the GDPR, which can justify claims for reimbursement of up to €10,000.
Meta-tracking: How user data is stored covertly
Using proprietary tools like the “Meta Pixel” and the “Conversion API,” website visitors are identified and their data—including IP addresses, device information, browsing behavior, and interests—is recorded and linked to Facebook or Instagram profiles. This often happens without valid consent.
Even when accessing well-known platforms like Spiegel.de, Airbnb, Parship, or Wahl-O-Mat, tracking may be activated – without users being informed. This means Meta violates fundamental principles of the GDPR, such as the lawfulness and transparency of data processing.
Courts rule against Meta – Numerous lawsuits successful
In more than 500 cases, German local and regional courts have already ordered Meta to pay damages ranging from €1,000 to €10,000 and to delete unlawfully collected data. Examples:
- Ellwangen Regional Court: €10,000 in Damages (case No. 2 O 222/24, 19.02.2025)
- Augsburg Regional Court: €5,000 in Damages (case No. 082 O 262/24, March 28, 2025)
- Hamburg Regional Court: €3,000 in Damages (case No. 325 O 22/24, 17.04.2025)
Although many rulings are not yet final, data protection experts expect higher courts to further strengthen the position of users.
What you can do now
Anyone who has used Facebook or Instagram, or who has come into contact with meta-tracking via third-party websites (e.g., online shops or news portals), may be entitled to compensation – even without their own profile.
The law firm Cocron provides comprehensive advice to those affected by:
- Claiming damages
- Erasure Requests Pursuant to Article 17 GDPR
- Investigation of illegal tracking activities
Lawyer Istvan Cocron explains:
” Many people are unaware that their data is being read without their knowledge while they browse the internet. Those who take action not only protect themselves – but also help to strengthen data protection overall.”
