Facebook strikes deal with FTC, makes privacy changes opt-in
updated 02:35 pm EST, Tue November 29, 2011
Facebook creates new privacy change positions
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg revealed on Tuesday that the social network has now outlined some of privacy changes ordered by the FTC. In the blog post, Zuckerberg also admits to a "bunch of mistakes" in the past, including Beacon and the transition of its privacy model. The agreement with the FCC means Facebook will give users the tools to control who can and cannot see their information.
The FTC barred Facebook from making false promises about the privacy or security of consumers' personal information, it required that Facebook gets consent before making changes that override their privacy preferences, and prevented anyone from accessing Facebook information for up to 30 days of a user who deleted their account.
Also, a new program will be made and maintained that will address privacy risks related to the development of new and existing products. To ensure these are made, a third-party audit every two years for the next 20 years is required within 180 days to certify the changes are being made.
Zuckerberg himself promised two new corporate officer roles would be created to make the commitments become reality. They will work with regulatory bodies and officials and include Erin Egan taking on the new Chief Privacy Officer, Policy role. Michael Richter will become Chief Privacy Officer, Products, moving on from Facebook's Chief Privacy Counsel on the legal team.
