Facebook is trying to update its privacy policy again, but is delaying as it deals with criticisms from privacy groups. They say the new policy makes it easier for Facebook to use the data of its members for advertising without their consent.
This privacy policy update was supposed to be a clarification, a response to the $20 million lawsuit that claimed Facebook had used personal data in advertisements without consent. However, it seems to have backfired. The new language in the document has convinced many people that Facebook wants to make using your data easier.
The proposed new Data Use policy states that Facebook will use the information you supply about yourself to give you more relevant adverts, but they don’t share information with advertisers that personally identifies you. The document also states that they can share your personal information with advertisers if you give permission.
What isn’t clear is how you give permission. The worry is that by using Facebook, your permission is assumed, although you can opt out. We are looking into this further.
This story further highlights the issues raised by data use in our story earlier this week. Companies like Facebook need to communicate in simple, plain language about what they do with your data. Your data is essentially the cost of using a free service like Facebook, so it’s important users understand clearly what is done with that data.
This controversy suggests Facebook is failing to communicate clearly enough to its users about data use.
[Source: The LA Times]
