Annotation 4:The possible future and suggestion for privacy on Facebook

       What kind of online privacy will we have in the future?

As more and more people recognize the privacy problem, Facebook has already noticed and tried to find ways to content their customers. However, not only Facebook, but also Google and other social networks have faced the dilemma between advertisers and customer’s privacy. According to the statistics, Facebook made more than 84% in revenue by online advertising (Kelly, 2013.) They are mostly lived by selling information and advertisements. But it doesn’t mean that the users can’t fight back. Facebook definitely don’t want to lose their users, and they also understand that users can stop using it and embrace new websites just in a few clicks. Also, with the rapid growth of technology, privacy problems will only become more complex. From the small sensors that can track your location to smart cars which are not yet common place, the more we attach to the Internet, the more we expose ourselves to the public. “Privacy is increasingly becoming a feature,” said Brendon Lynch, Microsoft's chief privacy officer (Kelly, 2013.) In short, the balance between privacy and profits will only become more and more difficult to reach.

However, the author suggests an idea that “not everyone will want the same levels of privacy”. Facebook can make user’s privacy optional with higher transparency. According to the author’s example, “personal data such as location have many potentially positive uses, such as food recommendations, social apps and dating services.” Balancing privacy and customized service may become possible when the settings are optional and easy-to-check. 

Another way Facebook can use is the “Do Not Disturb” system, which has been adopted by all major browsers such as Google and Firefox. This system allows users to choose whether they accept the websites provide online tracking. Some describe this system as a nuclear bomb in advertising, (Kelly, 2013) while others consider it as a good way to protect their privacy.

We might change our thoughts and tend to put more information on the Internet someday in exchange for customized servings. However, as long as people feel uncomfortable about sharing themselves, Facebook should respect and offer more options for them. Moreover, privacy settings should be more active to the customers. For example, when a new account is introduced into Facebook, the website should actively illustrate how Facebook works on their personal data. And Facebook can integrate private information only if the user agrees to receive personal services.

Source:

Kelly, H. (2013, March 1). Figuring out the future of online privacy. CNN, Retrieved from http://edition.cnn.com/2013/02/28/tech/web/online-privacy-policies/. - See more at: http://reffor.us/index.php#sthash.bL3dxdkE.dpuf