The new focus would require an encryption development push and a revenue-model shift.
In the blog post announcement, Zuckerberg mused:
“As I think about the future of the internet, I believe a privacy-focused communications platform will become even more important than today’s open platforms. Privacy gives people the freedom to be themselves and connect more naturally, which is why we build social networks.”
Shift To Encryption: Can Facebook Make It Work?
Industry pundits predict the move makes sense. For starters, the company needs to make a bold move after its latest privacy scandal. Additionally, now is a good time to take greater advantage of their two private messaging acquisitions: WhatsApp and Messenger.
But risks abound. For starters, many countries don’t allow platforms to operate with the levels of encryption needed to make Zuckerberg’s vision a reality.
Moreover, after Facebook’s recent spate of bad publicity, skepticism about the company is at an all-time high. Can it, once again, rise from the PR ashes and redirect the behemoth ship they’ve built? A ship, mind you, that relies on advertising and data sharing as primary revenue streams? Time will tell.
Connect with an Online Privacy Lawyer
In the meantime, if you have online privacy or Internet law legal questions, get in touch.
In the not so distant past, stateside businesses only had to follow a few, light-weight online privacy laws. These days there are lots. Companies must comply with federal statutes, like the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, California’s host of strict digital privacy regulations, and the EU’s GDPR. And yes, even if you aren’t based in California or Europe, these laws still apply.
Gordon Law works with startups and businesses on everything from online privacy to profitable tax positioning. We’re a one-stop-shop for all your online business needs.
Get in touch today to start a no-risk conversation. Let’s determine if we’re the right fit for you. We look forward to chatting.
