No, Facebook Places isn’t the root of all evil

Shortly after Facebook unveiled it’s new Facebook Places feature, status updates began popping up with warnings like “Facebook launched Facebook Places. Anyone can find out where you are when you are logged in!!! It gives the actual address & map location of where you are as you use Facebook!!! Make sure your kids know!!!”

I’m sure you’ve seen at least one-they are all over Facebook now. I’m happy to tell you the warnings are completely false. Facebook Places does not and can not allow anyone to find out where you are when you are logged in, nor does it track your every moment. It can’t, for instance, tell the world you’re playing Farmville while sitting on the toilet. It is simply a location based app that allows you to “check-in” to different locations such as attractions, stores, and restaurants, and post your location to your Facebook page. However, and this is very important, it won’t and can’t do so unless you install the app and tell it to. It’s not some kind of big brother spy app. It can only do what it’s told to. Someone else who’s using the app can not track you, period. They can tag you if you happen to be in the same location but the privacy tools described in the status warnings are there to prevent that if you want to do so.

Why do people use such apps? For one thing, it makes them eligible for discounts and coupons from participating stores. When they check in to a store location they often receive such offers. It’s also just fun for a lot of people. It helps them discover new things about the city they are in. Don’t worry though, they really aren’t going to violate your privacy!