Govt seeks explanation from FB over reports of data sharing without explicit consent

Expressing concerns over alleged data sharing without users' explicit consent, the government on Thursday sought social media giant Facebook's response to such reports by June 20.

"Recently there are media reports claiming that Facebook has agreements which are allowing phone and other device manufacturers' access to its users' personal information, including that of their friends without taking their explicit consent. The government of India is deeply concerned about reports of such lapses violations," said ministry of electronics and information in a statement.

"In response to earlier notices about breaches of personal data relating to the Cambridge Analytica episode, Facebook had apologised and given strong assurances to the Government of India that they would take sincere efforts to protect the privacy of users' data on the platform. Therefore, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology has sought an explanation from Facebook seeking a detailed factual report on the issue," added the ministry.

There were reports that Facebook had allowed phone and other device manufacturers access to its users' personal information, including that of their friends without taking their explicit consent.