It happens every so often, you start seeing posts on Facebook where people declare their rights to photos, videos, and other content they post. Sounds pretty great, right? Telling Facebook that they can’t use anything you post? Unfortunately, it doesn’t quite work that way. When you sign up for a Facebook account you agree to their Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Data Policy, and nothing you post can unilaterally change these terms. These posts have no effect whatsoever on Facebook’s terms and how they affect you.
The good news is that the transparency and clarity of Facebook’s policies (Terms of Service, Data Policy, and Privacy Policy) are undeniably improving. Coming January 30th, Facebook is updating its terms to reduce some of the legalese and streamline what the rules are. Check out the new Data Policy, and Terms of Service to familiarize yourself!
Facebook is also launching a new tool that many privacy-conscious users may find handy, it’s called Privacy Basics. One of the primary concerns of Facebook users is that they aren’t entirely sure who can see what on their profiles. This new tool walks users through their privacy settings, step by step, so they can be fully informed of what their settings are and whether they do what the user wants and intends. You can try out the new Privacy Basics feature right now to review how and what you’re sharing.
I hope that helps clear up concerns about your rights on Facebook! Review the new policies, check out Privacy Basics, and stay away from posts that claim quick fixes! Don’t hesitate to contact me with questions!
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