Promises, promises: Facebook’s history with privacy

MENLO PARK, Calif. – Facebook, now under fire over Cambridge Analytica’s alleged improper use of its user data, has a long history of privacy issues going back more than a decade.

Facebook had to apologize for an early service called Beacon, which shared what users were doing on other websites with their Facebook friends. One man said Facebook spoiled a Christmas surprise for his wife when it posted his purchase of a diamond ring to his social circle.

Ever since, it has grappled with multiple privacy gaffes, apologies and fixes.

Facebook has also repeatedly attempted to simplify its privacy controls, though without ever really succeeding at the task. It announced its latest effort on Wednesday.