 On Monday, Associated Press posted some interesting coverage on the budding craze of social networking website applications. From iLike to Bumper Stickers to customized music playlists, social networks such as Facebook.com have begun to offer an increasing amount of applications, or widgets, to users so that they can get more out of their online community experience. Over the years, social networks have implemented more and more privacy options so users feel more comfortable as they interact with one another. But this particular article warned against the common misconception that even if you have your privacy settings on the highest level of protection, strangers can still take advantage of your identity in other ways… Nearly all applications offered on Facebook are developed and hosted by external web developers. Every time you download a new application, you’re prompted to allow the third-party widget developer access to your information; this is indicated by the pop-up message: “know who I am and access my information.” Personally, I only allow my approved friends access to my user information. But if I were to download a Facebook application, for example, the developers would now be privy to my personal info (excluding my contact information). But why would users give up their info to strangers so easily? AP points out that since these applications have spread like wild fire, “agreeing to the terms has become a matter of routine.” Despite the fact that contact information isn’t transferred through, developers can still use data taken from members’ to generate target ads based on listed interests, gender, and age. AP contends that most social networks such as Facebook and leading network MySpace claim to “hold application developers to strict standards — and boot them if they don't comply.” Nevertheless, I know I’ll think twice before downloading applications, or at least reconsider the information I post on my Facebook profile. The article included extensive coverage on other social networking website privacy concerns, which I suggest you check out if you don’t want pesky target ads crowding your virtual space. |
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