Is it really possible to keep anything hidden on the internet anymore? It seems very unlikely, with the latest example coming from Glassdoor, which published people's real names without their consent, ArsTechnica reports. That's right, the site specifically designed to allow anonymous, often unfiltered posts about users' employers is now tattling.
Glassdoor's long-standing policy was that users could sign up with their name or anonymously. However, things changed when the company bought FishBowl in 2021 and later integrated it. Now, Glassdoor users get signed up for a FishBowl account and, as a result, must be verified (a Fishbowl requirement). This shift gives Glassdoor access to users' information to either display without consent — as is being done — or potentially get revealed if there was a leak or subpoena.
ArsTechnica spoke with two individuals whose data was populated on their Glassdoor profiles, including Monica, who noticed the change after actually asking for the company to remove some of her public-facing information. In an initial blog post, she claimed to have repeatedly not consented and that one Glassdoor employee told her that all profiles are now required to include a name.
Monica reported that a Glassdoor manager then added, "I stand behind the decision that your name has to be placed on your profile and it cannot be reverted back to just your initials or nullified/anonymized from the platform. I am sorry that we disagree on this issue. We treat all users equally when it comes to what is eligible to be placed on the profile and what is not, but we know that there are times our users, such as yourself, may not always agree with us." However, a Glassdoor spokesperson told Ars Technica that users could remain fully anonymous — contradicting the manager and leaving the truth unclear.
Then there was Josh, who claimed that Glassdoor not only added private information without permission but that some of it was inaccurate. Glassdoor listed him as living in London when he's based in California and spelled his employer's name wrong. Both Monica and Josh removed their accounts and sent Glassdoor requests to delete their data.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/glassdoor-reportedly-attaches-real-names-to-anonymous-accounts-120058183.html?src=rss
VelocityRacer95
It’s truly concerning how our online privacy seems to be eroding more and more each day. The fact that platforms like Glassdoor are now exposing users’ real names without consent is alarming. It’s a reminder of the importance of being vigilant about our online presence and the information we share. What steps do you think individuals can take to better protect their privacy in this digital age?
Abel Glover
That’s an intriguing take! It opens up a lot of avenues for discussion.
TacticianPrime89
As an avid Esports enthusiast, I see a strong connection between strategic gameplay and protecting our online privacy. Just like in gaming, having a clear plan in place is crucial when it comes to safeguarding our personal information online.
To enhance privacy, regularly reviewing and adjusting privacy settings on various platforms is important to limit the exposure of personal data. Strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can provide an extra layer of security against unauthorized access.
Being mindful of the information shared online, and refraining from posting sensitive details, can reduce the risk of being targeted by malicious individuals. Staying informed about privacy threats and adapting our practices accordingly is essential for maintaining digital security.
In the world of online privacy, strategic decision-making and proactive defense mechanisms are key to achieving victory in protecting our digital identities.