BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Amazon lost its fight against a record 746 million euro ($812.4 million) fine handed out by Luxembourg's privacy regulator four years ago as a court sided with the watchdog, according to a statement on the regulator's website.
The Luxembourg National Commission for Data Protection (CNPD) said the country's administrative court dismissed Amazon's appeal in a March 18 ruling. The watchdog had penalized Amazon for processing personal data in breach of EU privacy rules known as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Europe has taken a tough line against such violations, with its landmark law setting the benchmark for other countries. CNPD said its decision, which also included measures for Amazon to fix the issue, will remain suspended during the appeal period.
Amazon said it was considering appealing the court ruling. It stated that the CNPD's decision "imposed an unprecedented fine based on subjective interpretations of the law about which they had not previously published any interpretive guidance."
The case underscores the ongoing tension between large tech companies and regulatory authorities in Europe, where data privacy has become a significant issue in recent years. Companies are often faced with hefty penalties, making compliance with the GDPR crucial for their operations.
Luxembourg's legal framework, which is pivotal in the EU's approach towards digital privacy, has set a precedent by holding major firms accountable for lapses in data handling. The ruling affects not just Amazon but also serves as a warning to other corporations about the impending scrutiny they face as regulators tighten their grip on data protection standards.
The CNPD continues to advocate for stringent data protection measures, emphasizing the importance of upholding consumer rights and ensuring accountability from major players in the industry.
