University of Ottawa law students file privacy complaint against Facebook

Law students at the University of Ottawa have filed a complaint with the federal privacy commissioner against Facebook.

The students, including several dedicated Facebook users, allege the popular social networking website has committed 22 violations of Canadian privacy law.

They allege Facebook fails to inform members about how their personal information is disclosed to third parties for advertising and other profit-making activities, and also that it doesn't get permission from users to do so.

The students drew up the complaint after analyzing the company's policies and practices as part of a clinic course during the winter term.

Clinic director Philippa Lawson said the group focused on Facebook which boasts more than seven million Canadian members because it appeals to young teens who may not realize the risks of exposing personal information online.

Under law, the privacy commissioner has up to one year to investigate the complaint and present findings.