FB ‘targets’ teenagers’ insecurity

Papers show social media giant targeting the vulnerable for predatory advertising practices

London: Facebook is under fire over revelations it is targeting potentially vulnerable youths who “need a confidence boost” to facilitate predatory advertising practices.

The allegation was revealed on Monday by The Australian, which obtained internal documents from the social media giant that show how Facebook is capable of exploiting the moods and insecurities of teenagers using the platform for the potential benefit of advertisers.

The confidential document dated this year shows how the social networking website monitors the posts, comments, and interactions on the site.

It can therefore, figure out when youngsters feel defeated, overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, nervous, stupid, feeling silly, being useless and being a failure.

The leaked document shows on gaining useful psychological insights on young Australian and New Zealanders in high school and tertiary education.

Meanwhile. Facebook is also considered as a major player by dominating the industry worth of about $80 billion last year.

The secret document that was put together by two Australian Facebook officials that includes information about when young people are likely to feel excited, reflective, as well as other emotions related to overcoming fears.

“Monday-Thursday is about building confidence; the weekend is for broadcasting achievements,” the document said.

Facebook did not comment on the issue but was quick to issue an apology. They told The Australian that it will conduct an investigation into the matter.