Verizon Communications Inc. has announced it is halting its advertising on Facebook and Instagram, citing concerns over the platforms’ handling of hate speech and disinformation. The telecom giant, one of the largest advertisers to join the movement, expressed dissatisfaction with Facebook’s inability to curb the spread of harmful content effectively.
“We have strict content policies in place and have zero tolerance when they are breached, we take action,” said John Nitti, Verizon’s Chief Media Officer. “We’re pausing our advertising until Facebook can create an acceptable solution that makes us comfortable and aligns with the approach we have with YouTube and other partners.”
Verizon’s decision follows a broader initiative led by civil rights organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Color of Change. These groups launched the “Stop Hate for Profit” campaign in July, urging companies to boycott Facebook ads unless the company takes stronger actions to combat hate speech and misleading information. The initiative has garnered support from a variety of major brands, including Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI), Patagonia Inc., Upwork Inc., and Ben & Jerry’s.
Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of ADL, applauded Verizon’s decision, saying, “We applaud Verizon for joining this growing fight against hate and bigotry by pausing their advertising on Facebook’s platforms until they prioritize people and safety over profit. This is how real change is made.”
In response, Facebook has reassured advertisers that its content policies are guided by principles, not business interests. The social media giant has also been proactive in communicating its efforts to fight disinformation, particularly around voter registration and election-related content.
However, it’s not just advertisers who are raising concerns. U.S. lawmakers have also been pressing social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google to take stronger action against disinformation, especially in light of upcoming elections.
“We respect any brand’s decision and remain focused on the important work of removing hate speech and providing critical voting information,” said Carolyn Everson, Facebook’s Vice President of Global Business Group. “Our conversations with marketers and civil rights organizations are about how, together, we can be a force for good.”
