Skip to main content

Facebook Violates Canadian Privacy Laws?

Facebook Violates Canadian Privacy Laws?
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Following a complaint from the Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic, Canada’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner has wrapped up a serious look into how social networking site Facebook handles privacy and user information…and the findings do not show Facebook in a good light. The report notes that Facebook is obviously concerned with user privacy, but that that service has “serious gaps” in the way it operates and handles users’ personal information, and even violates Canadian law by retaining information on deactivated accounts for an indefinite period of time.

Canada’s privacy commissioner Jennifer Stoddard has said the commission’s report is believed to be the first time any agency has conducted a formal investigation into Facebook’s privacy practices.

Recommended Videos

One of the main privacy shortcomings uncovered by the report is Facebook’s disclosure of users’ personal information to third-party developers; when users add an application, they consent not only to sharing some of their personal information but information belonging to their friends as well; those friends have no control over access to that information other than blocking specific applications or opting out of applications altogether. The commission recommended apps be restricted to only essential information and that Facebook ensure users are informed what information will be disclosed and how it will be used; so far, Facebook has not agreed to those recommendations.

The commission also found Facebook violates Canadian law by keeping information on deactivated accounts around indefinitely, and confuses users by showing them how to de-activate an account but not how to delete it entirely. Facebook countered that about half the users who deactivate an account eventually come back to reactivate it, so keeping the information onhand provided value to its users.

The Commission also found Facebook needed to more fully explain how on-site advertising works; Facebook agreed to describe its advertising practices more fully and make that information more discoverable. The Commission also dismissed a complaint that Facebook engaged in deception and misrepresentation by promoting itself as a social networking site when it also engaged in other businesses, including supporting third-party apps and online advertising.

The Commission has given Facebook 30 days to comply with unresolved recommendations; if there is no progress, the Commission can take Facebook to Canadian Federal Court.

Geoff Duncan
Former Contributor
Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…
Wybot robotic pool cleaners are on sale — up to 43% off
The Wybot M1 robotic pool cleaner beside the swimming pool.

For a no-fuss way of maintaining the cleanliness of your swimming pool, you're going to want to invest in a robotic pool cleaner. Wybot is an excellent brand in this space, and it's a great time to buy one of its devices because it has its own Prime Day deals ahead of Amazon's Prime Day. You'll be able to enjoy discounts of up to more than 40% in the ongoing sale, but you're going to have to hurry as the offers will only be available until July 11.

You can check out all of the Wybot robotic pool cleaners that are on sale through the link below, but if you want recommendations, we've also highlighted our three favorite offers. Time is running out on the potential savings, so don't waste any more time and make your decision on which one to purchase as soon as you can.

Read more
Amazon Echo Spot back to its lowest-ever price ahead of Prime Day — 44% off
The Amazon Echo Spot (2024) on a table.

Amazon's Prime Day is just around the corner, but you can already start shopping for Amazon Echo deals if you're an Amazon Prime subscriber. Here's a nice one — the 2024 release of the Amazon Echo Spot with a 44% discount, bringing the smart alarm clock's price back down to its lowest-ever price of just $45 from its original price of $80. We're not sure how much time is remaining before this offer for savings of $35 expires though, so if you're interested, we highly recommend proceeding with your purchase immediately.

BUY NOW

Read more
Beatbot robotic pool cleaners are up to $930 off in early Prime Day deals
The Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra beside the swimming pool.

Beatbot is rolling out its own offers on its wide range of robotic pool cleaners ahead of Amazon's Prime Day, for the chance at amazing discounts on these smart devices. Up to $930 in savings are up for grabs before the shopping holiday even starts, so if you think you need help in maintaining a clean swimming pool, you wouldn't want to miss these incredible bargains.

Beatbot's Prime Day deals also include exclusive trade-in offers for additional savings -- this covers not just older Beatbot robotic pool cleaners, but also those made by other brands. This is a fantastic time to go for an upgrade, or to make the switch! And here's another reason to get a Beatbot device -- they all come with a three-year full replacement warranty, which is the first of its kind in the industry, for your peace of mind.

Read more