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US-based service - Your data may be subject to US CLOUD Act and accessed by US authorities

Facebook logo

Facebook

🇺🇸US Company

by Facebook

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.

EU Alternatives to Facebook

3 privacy-focused, GDPR-compliant alternatives

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.
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
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

Why switch from Facebook?

US CLOUD Act

US authorities can access your data stored by US companies, even if stored in Europe.

Privacy Concerns

US companies may collect and use your data in ways not compliant with EU standards.

EU Alternatives

EU-based services must comply with GDPR, giving you stronger privacy protections.

Other Social Networks you might want to replace

Ready to switch to a privacy-focused alternative?

Protect your data by moving to an EU-based service. Our migration guides make switching easy.