Meta · Meta Platform Policy

Restrictions on Sensitive Data Categories

High severity
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What it is

You must not collect, process, or share sensitive user data — including health and financial data, precise location, religious or political beliefs, racial or ethnic origin, or sexual orientation — unless you have explicit user consent and a legitimate use case approved by Meta.

Why it matters

Sensitive personal data categories carry the highest risk of harm if misused — this clause creates a specific heightened protection for the most personal categories of user information.

Consumer impact

Meta's Platform Terms directly affect consumers because they determine what third-party apps and developers can do with personal data obtained from Facebook or Instagram, including profile information, friend lists, and activity data. The terms prohibit developers from selling platform data or using it for surveillance, but enforcement depends on developer compliance rather than Meta directly protecting users. You can review and remove third-party apps that have access to your Facebook account by visiting Facebook Settings, then 'Apps and Websites', to revoke permissions for any app you no longer trust or use.

Applicable agencies

  • FTC
    The FTC has enforcement authority over deceptive collection and use of sensitive personal data categories under FTC Act Section 5 and specific health data guidance.
    File a complaint →
  • Hhs Ocr
    HHS OCR enforces HIPAA where health data obtained via Meta's platform is processed by a HIPAA-covered entity or business associate.
    File a complaint →

Provision details

Document information
Document
Meta Platform Policy
Entity
Meta
Document last updated
March 24, 2026
Tracking information
First tracked
March 6, 2026
Last verified
April 4, 2026
Record ID
CA-P-000199
Document ID
CA-D-00022
Evidence Provenance
Source URL
Wayback Machine
SHA-256
4374fc1ff34a2283fed483234d25489ab19318606babb2f08722353374991450
Verified
✓ Snapshot stored   ✓ Change verified
How to Cite
ConductAtlas Policy Archive
Entity: Meta | Document: Meta Platform Policy | Record: CA-P-000199
Captured: 2026-03-06 20:43:57 UTC | SHA-256: 4374fc1ff34a2283…
URL: https://conductatlas.com/platform/meta/meta-platform-policy/restrictions-on-sensitive-data-categories/
Accessed: April 4, 2026
Classification
Severity
High
Categories

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