Facebook privacy concerns are a recurring hot topic in the discussion of social media. I read about this website called Openbook which shows just how much of a person’s personal life is actually public, possibly unbeknownst to the user. Looking at some of the awkward keywords for default searches (e.g. “psycho ex” or “wet t-shirt”), I wonder if some of these people are just exhibitionist types or have some of the Facebook privacy changes left them behind? Could it be possible that they really think their status updates are only visible to their friends and are totally unaware that everyone can see their wall? Do they really want a prospective employer, long-lost cousin or random agency guy reading stuff from their wall?

For what it’s worth, I personally think Facebook has made it easier to manage your privacy settings and figure out what is public. It shouldn’t be that hard to figure out how to make your wall only visible to friends. Yes, I know a huge gripe for people is default settings and having to opt-out, but I’m talking mainly about these people going about their merry way with their wall completely public. Am I alone in thinking that’s tacky?!

Please don’t let any Smoking Gunn readers show up on this site!

PS: I found this article about PrivacyDefender, an app on Facebook that can help you manage your privacy controls. Check it out if you need some help!