Facebook at a crossroads with media literacy

Facebook is somewhat infamous for its ever changing privacy policies. Facebook's inconsistent approach to privacy has made life difficult for professionals and students looking to monitor their online reputation. In addition, this social networking giant has found itself at a crossroads - moving forward with new features vs. the growing gap in media literacy in America.

A consequence of the digital divide, disparity in media literacy has become more evident as online advertising grows and social media networks expand. Due to a variety of factors, including age, economics, education and geographic location, a significant portion of America's population now has access to the Internet, but lacks the knowledge to ensure that their information remains private. This group is more susceptible to identity theft, fraud and the embarassment of information overshare on social networks.

A story on NPR this morning explores these concerns, which have been made newsworthy by a variety of privacy groups. These organizations have filed a complaint letter (PDF) with the FTC, asking the commission to explore Facebook's privacy settings & recommendations. The letter alleges:

"Facebook’s changes to users’ privacy settings disclose personal information to the public that was previously restricted. Facebook’s changes to users’ privacy settings also disclose personal information to third parties that was previously not available. These changes violate user expectations, diminish user privacy, and contradict Facebook’s own representations."

These claims have a dual impact. For social media denizens, it means that users must proactively review any or all of Facebook's privacy settings and keep abreast of new developments. Second, and perhaps more problematic, privacy organizations, Facebook and perhaps even the government must now look at how the failure to educate millions of Americans about the risks of online information sharing has impacted social networking. For each privacy setting that Facebook adds, more and more users are convinced to use their "recommended" privacy settings. These settings err on the side of sharing, not privacy, as Facebook is, at its core, a business. And the business of selling information is a very profitable one indeed.

Conclusion? Social networking is growing faster than most can handle. Facebook needs to become a more responsible online citizen and take several steps:

1. Create a recommended privacy profile that is more closed than open
2. Create informational videos and posts about each privacy update and not just provide general, nonspecific instructions
3. Become more open about deals with search engines, and provide such information in an easily digestible format

And it wouldn't be social media without expecting a contribution from the public. We must:

1. Take steps to learn more about privacy on all websites
2. Share information with our friends and family, many of whom may not have the time or inclination to take a proactive privacy stance
3. Know our online information privacy rights

What are your thoughts on Facebook's privacy settings? What steps must interested parties take to ensure fairness on all sides?