The phone number that users enter on Facebook to ensure security via 2FA, which abbreviates for ‘two-factor authentication’, is being used to target them with ads. 2FA, as the name suggests, the method affixes another layer of security to amplify authentication.
In the wake of a report by Gizmodo, which was based on the study conducted by two American Universities, Facebook admitted that it repurposed the phone numbers put onto the platform in the name of 2FA to target advertising.
On being inquired about the findings
"We use the information people provide to offer a better, more personalized experience on Facebook, including ads," a Facebook spokesperson said in a dialogue with TechCrunch. He further added, "We are clear about how we use the information we collect, including the contact information that people upload or add to their own accounts,"
The pressing claims imposed by the studies prompted the social media giant to respond, it acknowledged channeling the data intended for security purposes in the course of advertising and dollars.
The users who have contact lists uploaded to their Facebook are unwittingly assisting advertisers in laying hands on PII, which is 'Personally Identifying Information' of their contacts.
On the prevention front
Facebook gave a clarification that users can choose not be a target by selecting non-mobile-number based means of 2FA and undoing the synchronization that listed their contacts.
Referencing a spokesperson’s statement, users can manage and delete the contact information they’ve uploaded on the platform at any time.
