to remind people to watch their privacy settings

[MrsMuddyPuddles]

I just read this article which clearly demonstrates WHY it matters what information you share publically on the internet (here, on facebook, on dating sites, etc).

www.cultofmac.com/157641/this-creepy-app-isnt-just-stalking-women-without-their-knowledge-its-a-wake-up-call-about-facebook-privacy/

Obviously it's up to you whether you care if people know what schools you went to, the full names of your parents and children, your address, etc but AIBU to think that companies like Facebook and Foursquare shouldn't be allowed to share this information (or any information specific to a user) with third parties?

isn't it in the T&C?? They can use info you give them in any way they see fit.

Afaik fb and the like are entirely optional.

Although my Privacy settings are high, I generally make the rule that if I don't want the world to see it then I don't put it online.

That is why I don't do FB!

Catsmamma, what do you mean to imply when you say that they're optional?

In the facebook T&Cs (I don't use foursquare), they state baldly that information that's public can be seen by anyone on the internet, they don't go into HOW this might be used. (not saying that they should but not everyone thinks of the sinister implications... I certainly don't do so consistently)

How unutterably depressing.

Actually if you read the updates you'll see that Foursquare do have a policy against this kind of use and have now cut off the app's access to their data. And Facebook are investigating.

Thanks RustyBear, I missed that

I mean that no one is obliged to go on fb and if you sign up you effectively relinquish control over anything you put on their site.

So I am always a bit shruggy at the shock horror gasp when people suddenly realise they have an online presence and can be found, when they have already put their lives out there.

Catsmamma

I quite agree.