I recently requested a deletion of my data on a platform using the GDPR, but instead of them deleting my data they replied to the request with instructions on how to delete my account using their profile tools.
Is this the same privacy-wise in terms of deleting my data?
Depends on their implementation. However you should keep a record that you requested the account deletion and if you find in the future that they still hold your data sue them.
Don’t sue them, we’re not the US. Make a complaint to your local DPA. If the offender needs to be pulled to court, the DPA will do so.
Difference is who’s paying for the court case.
Damn it I hate America so much. Everything here feels miles behind Europe.
Or that.
DPAs don’t have the resources to take action on every single complaints. You can sue the controller or processor directly under article 79 if you want to be sure that an issue gets dealt with quickly.