Researchers allege that TikTok, X, and Meta are refusing to provide user data they are obligated to share under European law, according to a report by Ars Technica. The companies are accused of stonewalling research that seeks insights into social media behavior.
Ars Technica describes the companies’ denial as interfering with a study that relies on the data mandated by EU regulations for transparency and accountability. The researchers’ claim is that each platform has formally requested the data but has received no cooperation, effectively blocking the research effort.
Data sharing for third‑party research is a legal requirement in the European Union to ensure compliance with privacy and competition laws. The allegation underscores tensions between large tech firms and the academic community over access to proprietary data.