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GDPR Compliance Risk

Facebook is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

Facebook logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Facebook

🇺🇸Facebook · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Facebook is a social media platform developed by Meta Platforms, Inc., based in the United States. It allows users to connect, share, and communicate with friends and family through posts, messages, and multimedia content. The platform is widely used for personal networking and engaging with a global audience. Key features of Facebook include the ability to create personal profiles, join groups, and participate in events, as well as a news feed that aggregates content from friends and followed pages. Facebook's target audience includes individuals seeking to maintain personal connections, share experiences, and discover content from around the world. It operates on a freemium pricing model, offering free access to its basic services while generating revenue through advertising. It is important to note that user data on Facebook is stored in the United States and is subject to US data laws, including the CLOUD Act and FISA 702, which may affect privacy considerations for users outside the US.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Facebook

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Facebook has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based social networks is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Facebook, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Facebook, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

3 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

3 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Facebook

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Mastodon logo

Mastodon

🇪🇺

Mastodon is an open source federated microblogging service/social media platform. A federated social network is decentralized, similar to how email works. Since Mastodon is open source, anyone with enough technical know-how can create their own Mastodon server where users can register. A Mastodon server is comparable to the email provider in the email system. Mastodon servers can communicate with each other via a standardized and open protocol called ActivityPub. Thanks to this protocol it is possible that users from one Mastodon server can for example follow users from other server or like their content.

Open SourceSelf-HostableEU-hosted
freeMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Decentralized: Users control their own data.
  • GDPR Compliance: Full adherence to EU data laws.
  • Open Source: Transparent and customizable code.

Consider

  • Smaller User Base: Less global reach than Facebook.
  • Learning Curve: New interface and features to learn.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Mastodon
BeReal logo

BeReal

🇪🇺

by BeReal

BeReal is a unique messaging app designed to foster genuine connections by encouraging users to share authentic moments. Each day, users receive a prompt to capture and share a photo within a limited timeframe, ensuring spontaneity and realness. Unlike traditional social media platforms, BeReal emphasizes privacy and simplicity, with no public profiles or follower counts, and content that disappears after a short period. Key features include real-time notifications when friends post, location sharing for added context, and user-controlled data deletion, ensuring that users maintain control over their digital footprint. BeReal is particularly appealing to individuals seeking a more authentic social media experience, free from the pressures of curated content and constant engagement metrics. Privacy and security are paramount, with BeReal hosting data in Europe, fully compliant with GDPR standards, offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and protection. While the app is free to download and use, it may explore additional monetization options in the future. BeReal is ideal for those who value privacy and authenticity in their digital interactions.

GDPR CompliantEU-hosted
freeMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Daily prompts encourage authentic sharing
  • No data selling ensures user privacy
  • Temporary content reduces digital footprint

Consider

  • Limited features compared to Facebook
  • Learning curve for new daily prompt system
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit BeReal
PixelFed logo

PixelFed

🇪🇺

by PixelFed

Learn more about Pixelfed, the free and open-source decentralized photo sharing social media platform

Open SourceEU-hosted
freeMigration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection
  • Decentralized servers reduce single-point failure
  • Open-source code allows community audits

Consider

  • Fewer users limit global reach
  • Migration can be time-consuming
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit PixelFed

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Facebook
United StatesNoPartialNofreemium
🇪🇺MastodonEUYesYesYesfree
🇪🇺BeRealEUYesYesYesfree
🇪🇺PixelFedEUYesYesYesfree

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Facebook GDPR compliant?

Facebook is a US-based service operated by Facebook. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using Facebook?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Facebook?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Facebook include Mastodon, BeReal, PixelFed. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from Facebook to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Facebook using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use Facebook?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Facebook. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

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Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026