Skip to content
Facebook introduced new safety features this week. However, Facebook didn’t go as far as some would have liked.
Many Internet security and safety advocates have been pushing Facebook to make privacy the default, create a vetting process for app developers and turn HTTPS on automatically.
So how is Facebook beefing up its safety and security and is it enough?
Here are the details:
– Two Factor Authentication: When you turn on this feature, Facebook will ask you to enter a code anytime you try to log onto the site from a new device.
– Improved HTTPS: In January, Facebook added HTTPS support to help prevent roaming WiFi hijackers from stealing data. If you are using an application with out HTTPS, Facebook will now automatically switch you back to HTTPS mode when you are finished with that application.
– Expanded Social Reporting Tools: Bullying and other Terms of Service violations are a problem on social networking websites. The reporting tool allows community members to send a private message to the person who posted the offensive content or report the offense to Facebook. Facebook has expanded this tool, which at first only covered photos and wall posts, to include profiles, pages and groups.
– Family Safety Center redesign: The Safety Center has received a makeover. Facebook’s Safety Center highlights its safety philosophy, community and tools and resources. Resources for Parents, teachers, teens and law enforcement also are highlighted. Facebook wrote on its official blog that it intends to provide a free downloadable guide for teachers who want to use social media in the classroom. Will this new guide prompt the lifting of social networking bans many school districts are instituting?
What do you think about the Facebook safety and security updates? What should Facebook do to make users feel safe and secure?
