Privacy groups push for more Facebook security

A number of privacy groups have pushed for more security on social networking giant Facebook, after the company announced it would simplify privacy controls.

“We are glad to see that Facebook has taken steps in the past weeks to address some of its outstanding privacy problems,” the letter said.

“However, we are writing to urge you to continue to demonstrate your commitment to the principle of giving users control over how and with whom they share by taking these additional steps.”

Other recommendations in the letter include letting users decide which apps can access personal data, making instant personalisation features “opt-in” and giving users control over every piece of information they share.

“One issue that must be resolved is the ‘app gap’: the fact that applications and websites that use the Facebook Platform can access a user’s information if that user’s friend – and not the user herself – runs the app or connects with the site,” the letter said.