SINGAPORE: More than half Facebook users are concerned about the social network’s ‘Timeline’ feature which presents a scrapbook of all past status updates and photographs.
Sophos, a leader in security and data protection company, said Timeline encourages users to enter more personal details about themselves and their life experiences, making it simpler for others to view the information.
“There are concerns that this will instantly make it easier for identity thieves and stalkers to profile individuals,” it said in a statement.
In addition, Timeline will be updated automatically through Facebook apps without having to press ‘Share’ or ‘Like’ buttons. Facebook is expected to phase out its old look and introduce the Timeline in the next few weeks.
The online Sophos poll surveyed more than 4,100 global respondents on their opinion of the Timeline.
Key findings from the research include 51 per cent worried by Timeline, only eight per cent like the new feature, eight per cent say they will get used to it and 32 per cent “still don’t know why they are on Facebook.” Senior technology consultant at Sophos, Graham Cluley said: “The Facebook Timeline will be a wake-up call to some that they have shared too much in the past, too freely.” “If nothing else, Facebook users should take this opportunity to re-evaluate what they share online. It is time to spring clean your Facebook account and online friend relationships, and ensure that you are only sharing what you want to share, with who you want to share it with,” he said.
“After all, a website which holds details on your entire life, likes and loves, is gold dust to scammers.” — Bernama
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