View Full Version : Facebook is very scary.
stairpost
05-10-2017, 19:24
I had a new phone delivered in the post today, I have just spent the last hour setting it up and downloading 2 apps from google play, Duolingo (to improve my German) and Spotify. While waiting for my offload playlists to download I browsed ebay for a watch dial, I then popped onto to facebook, where I saw an ad for ebay on my homepage showing me the watch dial I just looked at, fair enough I thought, cookies can follow me around, but I wanted to turn tracking ads off so I went into the settings and I had the option of choosing the type of ads I can see, one option was to see ads based on my interests, and which two interests did it show me? Duolingo and Spotify!
Now ads based on my internet browsing is one thing, but facebook knowing what I had downloaded on a phone I bought today is seriously worrying.
stairpost
09-10-2017, 11:47
I forgot to include the information that actually made the experience worrying.
I downloaded the apps on my new phone, but was browsing ebay and facebook on my laptop. Somehow, facebook on my laptop knew I had downloaded 2 apps on my phone, the 2 had never been connected, I have no phone number attached to my facebook account and my google play log in is gmail, where as my facebook log in is hotmail. I can't think of a single above board connection to account for how facebook knew what I had downloaded on my phone.
Fairly strong link with the 2. so they know who is signing in/ downloading etc. Never done facebook, in any way(never will either), but still get occasional popups via google for me to download their apps. Daughter always tells me to join lol.
you can connect up with old school chums etc. Didnt like them then, doubt I will now :D
Spectral Morn
09-10-2017, 11:55
Everything is interlinked these days :(
stairpost
09-10-2017, 12:26
Unfortunately there is an inescapable connection between platforms these days, but I am genuinely baffled as to how the Facebook me knew the phone me, different email addresses, no shared phone number and I must share my name with dozens of unrelated Facebook users.
I have been advised by friends to just accept it before it sends me mad :)
This forum is the only form of 'social media' I use, as I find the thought of using anything else, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc, mind-numbingly banal and somewhat sad, especially plastering pictures of yourself/hobbies/kids, etc, all over the net to complete strangers - for fuck knows what purpose or benefit! :mental:
No, if I want to contact my friends or family and 'catch up', I either pick up the phone and SPEAK to them (usually on a landline), pop them an email - or better still meet up with them in REAL LIFE. Remember that? Life existing outside of the virtual world....? It's a somewhat novel concept these days! ;)
Marco.
walpurgis
09-10-2017, 14:21
I don't use sites that are just for social networking. As you say Marco, they are banal. The drivel I see friends looking at is unbelievable.
Unfortunately there is an inescapable connection between platforms these days, but I am genuinely baffled as to how the Facebook me knew the phone me, different email addresses, no shared phone number and I must share my name with dozens of unrelated Facebook users.
I have been advised by friends to just accept it before it sends me mad :)
no doubt it is something like google that interconnects all online stuff these days.
Any site I go on they are always advertising to me with the Russian and Philippino brides. How do they know I'm not already married? Also with the expensive cars; I don't even have a license and I couldn't afford them anyway. Does make me laugh, though.
I don't use sites that are just for social networking. As you say Marco, they are banal. The drivel I see friends looking at is unbelievable.
Indeed. It's a mindset and world I simply don't wish to entertain, which is why I don't even own a smartphone. I simply have no need for one, nor do I have any desire to *develop* a need for one either....
Getting into using them, and addicted to social media, is the beginning of a slippery slope, which ends up with both controlling your life, ably evidenced by the habits of most folk these days, and how they seemingly can't function (or go anywhere) without being glued to their bloody phones! :rolleyes:
It's the quickest way to becoming an 'iZombie'.
Marco.
Any site I go on they are always advertising to me with the Russian and Philippino brides. How do they know I'm not already married? Also with the expensive cars; I don't even have a license and I couldn't afford them anyway. Does make me laugh, though.
you must have searched once ;) Never had that one......yet:lol:
good way to give your mates a divorce that when I think on it. Borrow their pc and search a few sites like that... they will get followed about:ner:
Ive got one and like it for what it is.. I keep in touch with the kids cheaply and can look in here too if bored while in car park or bed:D
But, everything in its place. I wouldnt be walking down street using the damn thing
Ive got one and like it for what it is.. I keep in touch with the kids cheaply and can look in here too if bored while in car park or bed:D
But, everything in its place. I wouldnt be walking down street using the damn thing
Everything in its place is exactly it, Grant, but they can set a dangerous precedent, by *demanding* your attention 24/7, continually sending you bleeping text and email alerts, etc. I just open up my laptop and access my emails when *I* decide that I want to - I don't need reminding by a machine.
As for keeping in touch with kids cheaply, sure, but there are many landline phone tariffs these days, which offer FREE calls, ANYTIME, so we should be using that facility more and actually speaking to each other properly - an eminently more human way of communicating, than using Facebook or sending text messages... The human race in general is just becoming far too lazy, and to its significant detriment.
Marco.
No, I don't like talking on the 'phone. Don't like texting either.
I've had a smartphone for years, never been sucked into it though. Think that might have been in a film you saw ;)
stairpost
09-10-2017, 15:36
This forum is the only form of 'social media' I use, as I find the thought of using anything else, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc, mind-numbingly banal and somewhat sad, especially plastering pictures of yourself/hobbies/kids, etc, all over the net to complete strangers - for fuck knows what purpose or benefit! :mental:
Marco.
I think banal is a little harsh, if not for social media how would I know that kittens think that I have to love myself before anyone else will love me, or know what Nandos' chicken looks like? ............................................. Oh yeah, fair point :)
No, I don't like talking on the 'phone. Don't like texting either.
Isn't that what you do in work everyday? ;)
Seriously though, I've never understood that either... What's the big deal about talking on the phone? I don't get it. I can talk to anyone, anywhere, via ANY means, feel completely at ease, and enjoy it all equally.
Anthony and I, for example, often talk on the phone for hours!
I've had a smartphone for years, never been sucked into it though. Think that might have been in a film you saw ;)
Lol... You know what I mean, though. You can tell when you're amongst folk who've been 'sucked into' being controlled by technology [and who 'live in' their mobile phones], simply by the 'symphony of bleeps' that continually accompanies them!
Marco.
I think banal is a little harsh, if not for social media how would I know that kittens think that I have to love myself before anyone else will love me, or know what Nandos' chicken looks like? ............................................. Oh yeah, fair point :)
Heh-heh... There's always time to wake up before it's too late! :D
Marco.
Everything in its place is exactly it, Grant, but they can set a dangerous precedent, by demanding your attention 24/7, via sending bleeping text and email alerts, etc. I just open up my laptop and access my emails when *I* decide that I want to - I don't need reminding by a machine.
As for keeping in touch with kids cheaply, sure, but there are many landline phone tariffs these days, which offer FREE calls, ANYTIME, so we should be using that facility more and actually speaking to each other properly, which is an eminently more human way of communicating, than sending text messages... The human race in general is just becoming far too lazy - to its significant detriment.
Marco.
you can just set it to silent mode as I do a lot. doesnt do anything then. or more severe airplane mode when it wont even accept a signal;)
Airplane mode, lol... Love it.
Do they also have a 'restaurant mode', 'cinema mode', or 'church mode' - or indeed any other non-operational mode, which prevents the damn things going off in public places, where other folk just want some peace and quiet? ;)
Marco.
nope all the same mode. called that as on planes you have to switch off the phones communications afaik but dont fly myself.
No worries, but judging by the evidence I see when I'm out and about (and forced to temporarily mix with 'the great unwashed'), not many appear to activate that facility! ;)
Marco.
Isn't that what you do in work everyday? ;)
Seriously though, I've never understood that either... What's the big deal about talking on the phone? I don't get it. I can talk to anyone, anywhere, via ANY means, feel completely at ease, and enjoy it all equally.
Anthony and I, for example, often talk on the phone for hours!
.
Work isn't social chit chat though. Nothing against that but only face to face. Obviously if there is no option, it has to do. Not for hours though!
Lol, just shows how we're all different! If I've got enough in common with someone, then I can easily chat to them for hours, on the phone or in person.
However, the thought of trying to do that via text, or on the Internet, via Facebook, using the tiny keys and screen on a Smartphone, fills me with dread! :eek:
When I'm on the Internet, I like to be sitting in my recliner chair at home, nice and comfy, with my laptop open on the armrest beside me, where I have have access to a 15" screen and a proper-sized keyboard - otherwise fuhgeddaboudit.....
And when I'm on the move, I'm usually driving [I don't do public transport], so using a phone for anything there is a no-no.
Marco.
My father always used to say 'The 'phone is for emergencies and quick messages only.' We had to ask permission to use it. That was in the days of the rip-off BT monopoly though, it would cost a few quid an hour. My mother would be on it for hours to her friends mind, but I think my old man was happy to take the hit since she couldn't do that and nag him at the same time.
Lol - I can see where you're coming from, but times have changed and even landline calls now are free anytime (providing you're on the right tariff), so there's simply no real reason to restrict yourself to communicating, using the keypad on a mobile phone. Especially when it's not the easiest thing to do, if you're not used to the process, find it deeply unintuitive, and have big fingers!
Marco.
in South Africa, my aunt and oncle who lived on a farm had a phone which was on a line linked up with all the other farms. And funnily, people seemed to communicate better in those days (and yes, they sometimes did listen in to each others calls :eek:)
Lol - I can see where you're coming from, but times have changed and even landline calls now are free anytime (providing you're on the right tariff), so there's simply no real reason to restrict yourself to communicating on a mobile phone, especially when it's not the easiest thing to do, if you're not used to the process, find it deeply unintuitive, and have big fingers!
Marco.
Oh yeah I can't be doing with typing on the things. And I have slim fingers.
I find at work I am always trying to sort something complex out then the 'phone rings and I lose the thread and have to start back again once I've sorted out the new problem the 'phone call has delivered. So I'm not hoping for more 'phone-related interruptions once at home and chilling out to some tunes. Usually have the landline switched off so they can't call me to sell me shit I don't want. 3 or 4 a night sometimes. 'Are you the homeowner?' Bollox off. Should get rid of it altogether really I think it costs about £200 a year.
Oh yeah I can't be doing with typing on the things. And I have slim fingers.
Me neither, and it always amazes me how folks here manage to post (sometimes lengthy) messages on the forum, via Tapatalk.... It'd drive me bonkers!
I find at work I am always trying to sort something complex out then the 'phone rings and I lose the thread and have to start back again once I've sorted out the new problem the 'phone call has delivered. So I'm not hoping for more 'phone-related interruptions once at home and chilling out to some tunes. Usually have the landline switched off so they can't call me to sell me shit I don't want. 3 or 4 a night sometimes. 'Are you the homeowner?' Bollox off. Should get rid of it altogether really I think it costs about £200 a year.
Yeah, I totally get that, but personally I don't consider it a chore having a good chat with a friend. I find it just as enjoyable, although in a different way, to listening to some choons... Fortunately too, we very rarely get nuisance calls, as we took appropriate steps a while ago to virtually eliminate them :)
Marco,
Airplane mode, lol... Love it.
Do they also have a 'restaurant mode', 'cinema mode', or 'church mode' - or indeed any other mode, which prevents the damn things going off in public places, where other folk just want some peace and quiet? ;)
Marco.
Or indeed a 'bedroom mode', also known as 'CCI mode' (contra coitus interruptus). ;)
:lolsign:
I can imagine some women might welcome that!
Marco.
:lolsign:
I can imagine some women might welcome that!
Marco.
Not just women :D
Ha - I prefer the more 'traditional' approach, involving the use of a gag and a large carrier bag! :lol:
Marco.
Minstrel SE
12-10-2017, 14:08
I tried Myspace once and then got a series of really nasty messages from a woman in Italy after I had deleted some of the animated fairy pictures :) she had bombarded my page with. She(if indeed it was even her gender picture or location ) asked I go on msn and then a tirade of hate and bile poured out over something totally insignificant. I was shellshocked getting messages from a complete stranger which left me feeling violated in my own home. I dont think Im over sensitive but there is something really spooky about a total stranger going beserk on instant messaging. I wouldnt do that again.
I thought if this is social media you can keep it :) I know this forum is social media but its the acceptable side of the medium and its moderated
Facebook just seems like a photo album for the me me generation. I have no interest in it and find it all extremely shallow. I believe its taking us backwards in many ways. Its become an addiction and a comfort blanket for people who seem insecure in some way. You dont need to be in touch with your friends 24/7 reporting every movement of your life.
Its become a thing that everybody must do to be considered included in society and I dont like that
I have a loose aquaintance who I hesitate to call a friend because our messages are mostly texts. I feel we are losing the art of conversation and the real depth of wanting to relate to someone. A few texts just make me feel empty inside as if we have had no real connection.
Its how we are becoming part of the machine and plugged in by the neck, Matrix style.
Facebook just seems like a photo album for the me me generation. I have no interest in it and find it all extremely shallow. I believe its talking us backwards in many ways. Its become an addiction and a comfort blanket for people who seem insecure in some way. You dont need to be in touch with your friends 24/7 reporting every movement of your life.
Its how we are becoming part of the machine and plugged in by the neck, Matrix style.
100% true, and so bollox to it!
Its become a thing that everybody must do to be considered included in society and I dont like that
Me neither, but I care not a jot about meaningless shite like that, and so am very happy to be EXCLUDED!! ;)
Marco.
.
Facebook just seems like a photo album for the me me generation. I have no interest in it and find it all extremely shallow. I believe its talking us backwards in many ways. Its become an addiction and a comfort blanket for people who seem insecure in some way. You dont need to be in touch with your friends 24/7 reporting every movement of your life.
Its become a thing that everybody must do to be considered included in society and I dont like that
I have a loose aquaintance who I hesitate to call a friend because our messages are mostly texts. I feel we are losing the art of conversation and the real depth of wanting to relate to someone. A few texts just make me feel empty inside as if we have had no real connection.
Its how we are becoming part of the machine and plugged in by the neck, Matrix style.
I agree and I don't like it either. I can sort of understand its appeal to women but to men? Simple rule - if you can't imagine Lee Marvin doing it then don't be doing it. :)
I agree and I don't like it either. I can sort of understand its appeal to women...
....of a certain, let's be reasonably polite, 'easily-amused mindset', and with nothing else better to do with their time. Del wouldn't touch it with a bargepole! ;)
Marco.
Well, yes, there are always going to be exceptions.
Indeed....anyone not sad enough, with a brain and also an active social life in the REAL world ;)
Marco.
I suspect a lot of the people on FB have very active social lives in the real world, that just isn't enough for them for some reason.
Mmm... The jury's out for me on that one, judging by amount of time that some of them spend on there, posting idiotic 'selfies', or similar banal nonsense, to folk every two minutes. It wouldn't leave much time for anything else! :rolleyes:
Marco.
montesquieu
12-10-2017, 15:16
Never had Facebook, looked at it when it first started to be popular and though no chance. It's got worse and worse too, this tagged pics nonsense these days.
I don't ever sign into google either - I had to set myself up once when I got an android phone cheap for when I was travelling in Taiwan and Japan, and my iPhone was tied to a contract. Even though you can shut off tracking I still don't trust the buggers.
Remember if a service is free then ***YOU*** are the product, your data to be bought and sold with little control. Europe is a bit better (thanks to EU Data Protection regulations) but America is outrageous - it's possible to buy information with up to 5000 datapoints on each of 200 million individual consumers, which is a frightening amount of information.
GDPR may help but ultimately they'll find a way to make you click through stuff and give them permission to buy and sell you.
With ubiquitous computing and the internet of things - sensors in everything including your car, communicating it back to base - this can only get worse. Goods that you theoretically own but where the provider of the software can impose restrictions - such as Tesla outlawing their cars to be used for ride sharing, or farm vehicles that can effectively only be serviced by particular dealers (not great if your in some village in Nebraska 200 miles from the nearest outlet).
Needless to say I won't be buying any of these Alexa-type devices that listen to your conversations and attempt to fulfill your 'needs'. Actually I think at some point people will get heartily sick of all this.
http://www.smh.com.au/good-weekend/what-that-facebook-quiz-is-doing-to-your-privacy-20170706-gx5zvj.html
https://www.technologyreview.com/s/609050/ok-google-get-out-of-my-face/
walpurgis
12-10-2017, 15:34
I have a pal who is on Facebook every day. The mind shrivelling rubbish he involves himself with is unbelievable. :rolleyes:
Minstrel SE
12-10-2017, 17:30
I suspect a lot of the people on FB have very active social lives in the real world, that just isn't enough for them for some reason.
Thats a deep point actually Martin and very true. They seem to be out and active all the time but always seem to be trying to keep in touch/show off with a wider circle as if the present moment is not enough..Sheena said this or heres a picture of my meal....really who cares?
There was something on telly last night where a young woman had kissed someone then blatantly put it on facebook so her boyfriend saw it. They are living their truly unremarkable lives out on some sort of stage and thats what irks me the most.
I feel like saying you are with us tonight so stop looking at your phone. Luckily I dont hang about with many of the facebook addicts.
My aunt is getting pretty bad with a tablet device. She was always over chatty but now she has all the holiday snaps and instant messaging to hand.
I can understand it for more isolated old sods like me but I do like my privacy and wouldnt dare to presume anybody was interested in the minutiae of my life.
They are living their truly unremarkable lives out on some sort of stage and thats what irks me the most.
I feel like saying you are with us tonight so stop looking at your phone.
Me too. It's the utter banality of it all that gets me, and you just feel like giving them a shake! You have to wonder what's inside their heads, other than perhaps some stale air?
In terms of the last bit, I would have done - and in no uncertain terms either. But then our friends are neither 'iPhone zombies', or likely to behave so rudely in our company.
Marco.
hifinutt
13-10-2017, 18:56
recently joined facebook to keep up with old work colleagues who i miss . its been brilliant , caught up with loads of old friends i havn`t had contact with . helped build relationships with distant rels . i know there is lots of rubbish but there is some good . recently homebase fined me 60 quid for staying at their store for 15 mins too long [limit 1hour] which i did not realise . put it on their facebook page and within approx 5 mins the manager had rung me re the matter
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