Facebook seeks to block political ad targeting research

Facebook has demanded that New York University pull the plug on a research project into the platform’s targeting practices for political ads, saying it is a violation of terms to collect user data.

“A week ago, Facebook sent me a (cease and desist order) asking us to take down AdObserver and delete our data. The public has a right to know how political ads are targeted, so we will not be complying with this request,” Laura Edelson, a PhD student and researcher with NYU Ad Observatory, said in a post Friday.

With just 10 days until the US election, Facebook is being sharply scrutinised for the role it plays in campaigning, and the way candidates and political groups use the social media network to influence voters.