Aftonbladet, part of the Schibsted media group in Sweden, has introduced a new payment model for its users who wish to avoid data collection. Under this system, users are given the option to either accept the collection of their data, which includes reading habits and advertising interactions, or pay a monthly fee of 49 kronor. This change is implemented in response to the stringent regulations imposed by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU, which mandates that users must be able to choose whether to allow data collection.

Fredric Karén, the CEO of Schibsted in Sweden, explained that the media group's financial model relies heavily on data for advertising revenues, and the choice presented to users is a necessary adaptation to the evolving regulatory landscape. He highlighted the significant revenue losses that could occur due to users opting out, estimating a potential deficit of 500 million kronor annually for the company. This situation underscores the delicate balance that media companies must maintain between user privacy rights and their own financial sustainability.

The introduction of this model has drawn criticism, with some accusing the media group of 'extortion' by forcing users to pay to protect their privacy. The debate continues as to whether this approach will alienate readers or prove a sustainable way for news outlets to navigate the challenges presented by data regulations in the digital age.