On Aug. 18, Facebook unveiled Facebook Places, a location-based phone app that would allow users to tag themselves at places, much like Gowalla and foursquare allow people to check-in around town. With Places, users would also be able to tag their friends at a location, just like you would a picture on Facebook.
Take a look at the video Facebook created to debut this new feature:
The app is getting mixed reviews. Some people are excited about chance to easily find friends when they’re out and about. Other Facebook users are concerned.
Part of the issue is that Facebook doesn’t ask if you want to use Places, it assumes you do. If you’re a FB user, then you’re automatically capable of tagging or being tagged with Places. If you don’t want to use Places, or don’t want others to tag you, your settings must be changed to “disabled.” Click here to see how to disable Places.
Why would someone want to disable Places? For one, a person could be tagged at a location that he or she was never actually at. This could potentially lead to cyber bullying. Also, if someone has a controlling or abusive partner, Places and other location-based apps could serve as a map for the abuser to find their girlfriend/boyfriend.
Facebook Places is an interesting addition to the already mega-popular social network. Consider if it will be fun and safe for you before you use it.
Comments
I don’t understand the thrill
I don’t understand the thrill over these new check-in/places apps and what have you. I suppose, when I was a teenager, I would have seen the appeal, but as a full grown adult, I think it’s just dangerous. And furthermore, I see no need for anyone to know where I am all the time, except for the people I’m with. As a teenager, I dealt with abuse at the hands of a boyfriend, and I know if this sort of thing was available fifteen years ago, he would have tracked me down all the time. I only hope parents have the sense to educate their children about the dangers of these apps. Of course, as a former teen, I fully understand that parents can talk until they’re blue in the face and still not get through to their kids. Long story short… I’m not a fan.
Add new comment