FB FINED FOR SHARING DATA WITHOUT CONSENT

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Signing into websites with social media accounts have become quite common as it saves a lot of time without having to go through multiple signing steps. But it has been found that through this method, Facebook has been disclosing the personal information of the user's friends. The government believes at least 3.3 million people in Korea alone have fallen victim to privacy leaks, and has levied a 6.7 billion won fine on Facebook.

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This is a work-out app. Facebook users can gain access right away using their existing accounts. This process is known as social log in. All you have to do is just agree to the terms and conditions regarding your personal information. But the moment you do so, not only your personal information but also that of your Facebook friends are disclosed. It happens without their consent. A survey conducted by the Personal Information Protection Commission shows that at least 3.3 million people fell victim to privacy leaks over six years starting in May 2012. The actual number of victims is believed to be even higher.

[Soundbite] SONG SANG-HOON(PERSONAL INFORMATION PROTECTION COMMISSION) : "Given that Facebook friends' personal information was provided through more than 10,000 apps, the damage is much more serious."

The Personal Information Protection Commission has levied a 6.7 billion won fine on Facebook and plans to indict thecompany on criminal charges. The commission pointed out that Facebook submitted fabricated documents for the investigation and did not disclose the number of Facebook friends whose personal information had been leaked. Facebook responded by saying it cooperated with the investigators as much as possible, and called the decision for indictment regrettable. The social media giant, however, said it has yet to consider the commission's decision in more detail. The Personal Information Protection Commission has also levied a separate fine of 66 million won on Facebook for storing its users' passwords without encryption.