Ask a conspiracy theorist about Facebook and they may tell you that Facebook eavesdrops on users. For years there have been accuasations that the social media platform might be using microphones to listen in on users — an allegation that Facebook has not denied. According to a University of South Florida professor, Facebook listening in on its users would not be surprising although unlikely. Facebook has denied the allegations.
In an online statement, Facebook says: “We use your microphone to identify the things you’re listening to or watching, based on the music and TV matches we’re able to identify.”
Professor Kelli Burns, who teaches mass communications, tested it out with NBC by turning on the microphone on her phone and talking about jeeps. “I’m really interested in going on an African safari,” said Burns in her test. “I think it’d be wonderful to ride in one of those jeeps.” Shortly thereafter, the first thing that popped up on her feed was related to what she spoke about.
If Burns’ theory is true, then the motive is less benevolent and more financial. That said, Facebook has denied that it records conversations.
“Facebook does not use microphone audio to inform advertising or News Feed stories in any way,” a Facebook spokesperson told The Independent. Businesses are able to serve relevant ads based on people’s interests and other demographic information, but not through audio collection.”
Worried about Facebook and your microphone? The simple solution is to turn off your microphone feature. Those who use iOS devices can go to Settings, Privacy, and select Microphone. Android users can also go to Settings, Privacy and cut off access to their device’s microphone.
