5 Ways In Which Facebook ‘Outs’ Gay Users

Facebook is raising privacy concerns again. Researchers from Germany’s Max Planck Institute are claiming that the social networking site shares information about its users’ sexual orientation with advertisers. As a result, critics claim that homosexuals who wish to remain in the closet are being outed without their knowledge. I completely understand that someone might not want their sexual orientation broadcast to advertisers, but I am still a little confused. If someone is concerned about keeping their sexuality a secret, why in the hell would they tell Facebook they were gay? Besides, even without this latest controversy, it’s easy to see spot a homosexual on Facebook, if you know where to find the subtle clues.

 

If you’re trying to spot a homosexual on Facebook, your first stop should be your own news feed. From time to time, a closeted friend may slip up and join a group or "like" something that serves as a clue.

 

Another good spot to mine for information is someone’s about page. Sometimes, people let their guard down, and accidentally leave revealing secrets.

 

People often change their status updates in the heat of the moment. Pay attention, and you might just catch a glimpse of candor.

 

Another way Facebook tends to out its users is by showing off their friends. Take a close look. As the old saying goes, birds of a feather flock together.

 

When bulk uploading hundreds of photos, it’s easy to let something embarrassing slip through. Comb through your friends’ pictures and see if you spot anything suspicious.