If they don’t—and actually, even if they do—the employer may assume liability for the protection of the information they have seen or for knowing what responsibilities may arise based on different types of information (e.g. if the information suggests the commission of a crime)."
Sobering words. But don't expect Facebook's stern disapproval and hints of legal liability to scare off employers who want access to applicants' log-in information so they can vet prospective hires. For starters, Facebook isn't the hiring boss of the employers in question.
Secondly, it's not likely that Facebook itself expects a scolding to dissuade sleazy employers from violating Facebook members' privacy. This is a PR move, pure and simple.
The unintentionally humorous part of Facebook's outrage over employer password requests is Egan's straight-faced declaration that "Facebook takes your privacy seriously."
Really?
Rather than link to every article and blog post demonstrating that Facebook actually has an historically indifferent attitude toward protecting user privacy, check out any one of these posts by ITworld privacy blogger Dan Tynan. They make a mockery of Egan's solemn claim.
Chris Nerney writes ITworld's Tech Business Today blog. Follow Chris on Twitter at @ChrisNerney. For the latest IT news, analysis and how-tos, follow ITworld on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+.
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