Last Friday, Facebook announced proposed changes to their Data Use Policy. The goal of the changes is to create a more transparent guide on how Facebook uses the data of its users. Some of the changes are in response to recommendations made by the Irish Data Protection Commissioner, after completing an audit of Facebook’s data practices last year.

Some of the improvements touted by Facebook include:

1. More examples and detailed explanations of their policies.
2. New links in the Facebook Help Center.
3. A new section explaining how Facebook uses cookies and similar technologies.
4. More detailed information on how Facebook uses data in regards to general operations, advertising, and promoting the safety and security for its users.

Erin Egan, Facebook’s Chief Privacy Officer, advised that the policy is being updated to include information on new Facebook features launched since the last policy update – Activity Log and Timeline were specifically mentioned.

The Facebook Terms and Policies Hub was launched as well. This is a central repository for all of the terms and policies governing Facebook usage. This hub can be found at the following URL: https://www.facebook.com/policies and by clicking on the ‘Terms’ link located at the bottom of most Facebook pages.

If you want to view the proposed changes to the Data Use Policy, then visit the Facebook Site Governance Page. Users have the opportunity to comment on the proposed changes until 5:00 p.m. PDT on May 18, 2012.

Recommended Resources

BitDefender Safego is a Facebook application you can install that will scan your News Feed and help keep you safe from scams  on Facebook.

PRIVATE WiFi® is a Personal VPN that encrypts everything you send and receive. Don’t access Facebook from a public WiFi hotspot without it.

Do Not Track + is a FREE browser plugin created by Abine. This easy to install plugin keeps websites from tracking you. If you value your online privacy, then you should definitely take advantage of this free product.

Action Alert | Free Parental Control offers a 100% free Internet safety solution designed for parents. There is also a Maximum Protection option for parents that need a more advanced set of tools.