Unfortunately, this is one of those online myths that just keeps coming back. Yes, it is a myth. And yes, it keeps coming back… over, and over, and over again.
According to the myth, posting the following notice on your Facebook will protect your privacy and somehow override Facebook’s privacy policy:
Due to the fact that Facebook has chosen to involve software that will allow the theft of my personal information, I do declare the following: on this day, November 26,2014, in response to the new Facebook guidelines and under articles L.111, 112 and 113 of the code of intellectual property, I declare that my rights are attached to all my personal data, drawings, paintings, photos, texts etc… published on my profile. For commercial use of the foregoing my written consent is required at all times.
Those reading this text can copy it and paste it on their Facebook wall. This will allow them to place themselves under the protection of copyright. By this release, I tell Facebook that it is strictly forbidden to disclose, copy, distribute, broadcast, or to take any other action against me on the basis of this profile and/or its contents. The actions mentioned above apply equally to employees, students, agents and/or other staff under the direction of Facebook.
The contents of my profile include private information. The violation of my privacy is punished by the law (UCC 1 1-308 – 308 1 -103 and the Rome Statute). Facebook is now an open capital entity. All members are invited to post a notice of this kind, or if you prefer, you can copy and paste this version. If you have not published this statement at least once, you will tacitly allow the use of elements such as your photos as well as the information contained in your profile update.
According to Snopes, this is false. Posting such a notice will not do anything. Remember, the internet is full of lies, half-truths and propaganda. Don’t believe anything you read on the web and social media. Even if your Grandmother is posting – check your sources. Once you check, check it again.
By the way, if you do not agree with Facebook’s privacy policies, you have several options:
- Don’t sign up for a Facebook account.
- Try to negotiate a modified policy with Facebook.
- Take Facebook to court.
- Lobby for Facebook to amend its policies through its Facebook Site Governance section.
- Cancel your Facebook account.
