Facebook policy changes spark row

Facebook has run into a fresh attack from privacy activists after the huge social network modified policies on how it manages users’ data.

The changes unveiled last week ended Facebook’s effort to allow users to vote on privacy policy, but also permits sharing of information with its newly acquired photo-sharing service, Instagram.

Additionally, the changes make it easier for advertisers and others to send messages on Facebook, limiting users’ control, according to privacy rights groups.

Activists have raised a ruckus over the changes, saying they could violate some laws or Facebook’s agreement with US regulators earlier this year after complaints from privacy groups.

The latest spat highlights Facebook’s quandary on how it can monetize data from its billion users worldwide by sharing information and still live up to its pledge to protect privacy.Afp, Washington/The Daily Star