Facebook backtracking after outcry over privacy policy changes
Facebook’s proposed plan to amend its privacy policy appears to have been delayed with the announcement that the social network is reconsidering the necessity of the “updates”, which critics claim will permit the company to use private data in advertising without users’ permission.
“We are taking the time to ensure that user comments are reviewed and taken into consideration to determine whether further updates are necessary and we expect to finalize the process in the coming week," Facebook said in a statement.
The statement is the first indication that the network may be reconsidering its position.
The policy updates are opposed by six US based consumer watchdog groups, who have lobbied the Federal Trade Commission to intervene and block the changes.
It is claimed the policy changes will make it easier for the company to use the names, images and personal information of users to endorse products in adverts without their consent.
"All we are changing is that we are providing more information and more specifics." Facebook's chief privacy officer, Erin Egan said last week.
The policy change appears to have been prompted by Facebook’s loss in a 2011 lawsuit which claimed the company used personal information for commercial purposes without consent or compensation.
“The new language says users automatically give Facebook the right to use their information unless they specifically deny the company permission to do it. At the same time, Facebook made it more complicated to opt out,” the LA Times reported.
“Previously the policy stated that users have the right to control how their names, likeness and personal information are used for commercial purposes.”