A former Facebook executive testified today that Meta shared user data with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
If this sounds familiar, its because TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew previously faced scrutiny from Congress over similar concerns. Specifically, that TikTok may be sharing U.S. user data with China. Committee Chair Cathy McMorris warned the American people:
TikTok is a weapon by the Chinese Communist Party to spy on you and manipulate what you see and exploit for future generations.
As it turns out, the biggest threat to U.S. users may be much closer to home.
Here’s what we learned.
Former Facebook Executive Alleges Meta’s Cooperation with the Chinese Communist Party
Sarah Wynn-Williams—an ex-Facebook insider—told the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism that Facebook was actively working with the Chinese Communist Party. According to her account, Facebook did so in pursuit of persuading China to permit the platform in the country—at whatever cost.
1. Facebook Likely Shared U.S. User Data with the Chinese Communist Party
Wynn-Williams told Congress that Facebook set up a direct connection with the Chinese Communist Party to share data about Chinese and Taiwan citizens. She suggested that—through this process—U.S. user data was likely shared with the Chinese Communist Party via PoP servers.
2. Facebook Censored Users on Behalf of the Chinese Communist Party
Wynn-Williams also testified that Facebook routinely responded to requests from the Chinese Communist Party to remove content and censor individuals, particularly those who were outspoken about the regime. Meta even built censorship tools specifically to meet the CCP’s needs.
This contradicts Zuckerberg’s public representations. At a 2019 speech at Georgetown University, he vigorously defended the “power” of people to “express themselves” going so far as to call it the “Fifth Estate.” Zuckerberg continues to echo these sentiments today, claiming to be a champion of free speech.
Notably, Zuckerberg has also criticized TikTok, alleging that it censored political protests and other sensitive content.
Based on Wynn-Williams’ testimony, Facebook was knowingly engaging in the very practices its own CEO publicly claimed were inappropriate.
3. Facebook Helped the Chinese Communist Party Develop AI Models
Finally, Wynn-Williams testified that Meta had a direct hand in increasing China’s global influence, including in the race for AI dominance. This included briefing the Chinese Communist Party on AI—something many would consider against U.S. interests. She went so far as to suggest that there is a “straight line” between Meta and China’s AI capabilities, including AI models built by China for military use.
What Happens Next?
In light of these allegations, members of Congress called on Facebook to provide a much-needed response to the claims made by Wynn-Williams.
If these allegations are substantiated, they raise serious concerns about user privacy and national security. Users may need to reconsider how their data is handled by major tech companies and advocate for greater transparency and accountability.
Contact Us.
If you believe your private data may have been shared by Meta, contact us for a free consultation using the form below. You can also contact Amanda Fiorilla directly at afiorilla@lowey.com.