Code error exposes Facebook information to marketers

Privacy concerns and Facebook seem to go hand-in hand. Information abuses appear to be showing up increasingly more often. The way Facebook coded links for marketers and app makers could have exposed a significant amount of user information.

All the security problems figured out

The security firm Symantec is very helpful. It provides software to individuals. In a blog post yesterday, Symantec's engineers revealed a "spare key" flaw in the programming of Facebook. Facebook had already taken corrective action by the time Symantec revealed the flaw. A ton of passwords and personal account information was revealed with this spare key. The key, if properly used, would have allowed advertisers to access accounts, chats and friend details.

How to protect yourself

Though Facebook has corrected the flaw that revealed hundreds of thousands of pieces of personal information, some of that data is still accessible online. The right password will make all the main difference, as it is with all private data. Numbers and letters are both in passwords and shouldn't be used for any other online accounts you've. Make sure you change your password regularly so that nobody can access your information.

Best way to look after the flaw as fast as possible

Unlike most computer-security exploits, this particular Facebook breach was found before it had been exploited. Facebook took care of the flaw right away after being informed. Google and Apple are also both facing strong questions about their security procedures. Both businesses acknowledge that phones running their operating systems could track private information of users. When using the internet, it can be hard to keep track of private details, so be careful and make sure you do good personal privacy practices.

Citations

Symantec

symantec.com/connect/blogs/facebook-applications-accidentally-leaking-access-third-parties

NPRnpr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=136206758