It may look like a very interesting new feature, after all, it is hard to find fault in having another social networking tool. But when your private list of contacts, friends and correspondences is intruded upon and published for the whole world to see, it would not be a surprising reaction to feel violated and vulnerable.
This is exactly what Google has done with many of its’ Gmail users by suddenly launching the service and seemingly forcing everyone into it.
Technically, Google never forced a single Gmail user to use Buzz. The initial splash screen introducing the Buzz gives everyone a choice to not use the service.
Using the service however, will force the user to use the default settings upon launch.
It may seem like a small technicality, but it has plenty of serious consequences. For a point of reference, imagine signing up for a Facebook account; you click register, fill up your details, fill in your email address and once everything is all set to go, you are directed to the settings page of your profile. You are given the choice to determine the different access and privacy settings you will have.
Google does not give users this privilege.
Sure, the Buzz has settings you can edit and change. But not before you are logged into the service, publicly. When Gmail opens, the Buzz account will automatically have you following people and being followed by people, It even links Picasa accounts exposing your images to some completely random strangers (if your ever emailed a client or supplier, they will be part of the “who’s following you” list).
Even worse is the simple fact that everyone gets to see who is in your contacts list; this exposes critical professional and personal information regarding your connections.
Read more about Google Buzz problems (including a lawsuit) at the Telegraph UK.
Tags: Google-Buzz