We’ve all had that "wait, how do they know that?" moment with targeted ads, but it’s especially frustrating when your security info is the culprit. That’s exactly what sparked this mess: Twitter previously used 2FA contact details for advertising, which led to the FTC stepping in with strict data processing audits. Now, X is trying to get those expensive independent audits dropped, arguing that the platform has changed so much since Elon Musk took over that the old FTC orders are no longer necessary.

However, civic groups aren't buying it. They are submitting formal opinions by July 2nd, warning the FTC that stopping the audits now would put user privacy at serious risk. The FTC is currently gathering public feedback to decide if X gets a pass or stays under the microscope. It's basically a fight over whether your personal data is actually safer now or just less watched.