After being acquired by Facebook in early April, it was only a matter of time before Instagram would adopt some of its criticized policies.
The company announced Monday (December 17) changes to its privacy policy, which essentially give its parent company (Facebook) access to all of Instagram's user data. Starting January 16th, Instagram can share information about it users with Facebook, affiliates and advertisers, helping Facebook's ad network better target ads, according to the new policy.
Harmless? Well, that's not it. The photo-sharing app also reserves the right to use your username, photos and other data in advertisements.
"Some or all of the Service may be supported by advertising revenue. To help us deliver interesting paid or sponsored content or promotions, you agree that a business or other entity may pay us to display your username, likeness, photos (along with any associated metadata), and/or actions you take, in connection with paid or sponsored content or promotions, without any compensation to you," Instagram stated in its revised policy changes, which were posted on its website.
Furthermore, you may be featured in an ad without knowing it, but the ad won't even be required to labeled as an advertisement.
You don't have a choice either. If users don't want their images used, they must quit.
"If you do not agree to be bound by all of these Terms of Use, do not access or use the Service," the company said.
