I read this article on iMedia this weekend on privacy.  Yes it's a big topic and some marketers and businesses don't want to talk about it.  They keep thinking "net neutrality" or some form of it should rule.  Let me give you an example of a real live example where I see issues with social and privacy.

Ok, you've got a Facebook account with 500 friends.  You happen to work for Hyatt Hotels -- a great brand.  But you're looking for a vacation and happen to land on a travel site that has an awesome vacation package to Europe and you click the "facebook like" button.  No harm, no foul -- right?  Well don't be so sure.  Let's say that facebook like posted a like for your main competition -- lets say Hilton Hotels.  And when you click it, it posts on your wall that you "like Hilton Hotels" and that populates to your 500 friends... and guess what your boss happens to be a Facebook friend.

Your boss and company get pissed and fire you because you've disgraced the brand.  Who are gonna file a lawsuit against?  Your former employer, Hilton Hotels, or Facebook?

Because when you clicked the like button you had no idea it would post to your wall.  There wasn't a warning or a small privacy statement telling you about what you're getting ready to do.

You see my point?  Yes, you might be a total ignorant web weenie... but remember the gal who sued McDonalds because she spilled hot coffee in her lap and said the cup didn't have a warning.

I've yet to hear about such a lawsuit, but I bet ones' coming.

Scott