Italy: Italian Data Protection Authority imposes EUR 2 million fine on Clubhouse

On 6 October 2022, the Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante per la Protezione dei Dati Personali) announced it had imposed a fine of EUR 2 million on Alpha Exploration, the owner of audio-based social media app Clubhouse, for several breaches of privacy law. These breaches include lack of transparency on the use of personal data, lack of user consent when storing audio, data profiling, and data storage for indefinite periods. The Authority also ordered Clubhouse to adopt a series of measures to protect users. In particular, the company will have to introduce a function that clearly informs users about the possible recordings being made, and will also have to clearly inform potential users on the uses of their personal data.