Facebook has warned users engaging in potentially illegal activities on its network that they are in the crosshairs. The company now tries to draw the line when self-expression might be just too much.
Facebook's tighter rules affect posts that may promote sales of illegal guns and other regulated services or goods. The change in its policy follows continued pressure from advocacy groups including Mayors Against Illegal Guns, Sandy Hook Promise, Americans for Responsible Solutions, and Moms Demand Action.
Facebook will send a warning message to a user whose post has been reported to promote or sell any regulated item. Access to such posts also will be limited to users 18 years or older. The changes will be enforced over the next few weeks.
The company will also require Pages about private sale of regulated items to put up a reminder that everyone should comply with regulations and follow existing laws. Those trying to sell pistols or rifles, for example, cannot post phrases such as "no background check required," nor can they offer to sell across state lines without a licensed firearms dealer involved in the transaction. Those measures are aimed at stopping posts that indicate a willingness to evade or help others evade the law.
Users of Instagram who try to find pages that provide illegal products or services will also receive an "in-app education" reminding them of gun laws.
"Because of the diversity of people and cultures on our services, we know that people sometimes post or share things that may be controversial or objectionable. We work hard to find a balance between enabling people to express themselves about topics that are important to them, and creating an environment that is safe and respectful," Monika Bickert, Facebook's head of global policy management, said in a statement.
"People sometimes use our free tools to discuss products that are regulated or controversial. In some cases they promote these products for sale or use, even though it's not possible to complete a sale on Facebook or Instagram. While we've recently heard specific concerns from people about offers for the private sales of firearms, this is one of many areas where we face a difficult challenge balancing individuals' desire to express themselves on our services, and recognizing that this speech may have consequences elsewhere," she added.
While most advocacy groups are praising Facebook for its latest move, not everyone is pleased.
"This new policy is not a victory because Facebook continues to makes it too easy for dangerous people to evade a background check when buying guns. A mere warning to follow the law and community-based reporting will not do enough to prevent unchecked gun sales to dangerous people," the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence said in a statement.
The National Rifle Association sees the move as violation of the basic rights of people.
"The NRA enjoys 150 times more support on Facebook than Michael Bloomberg's Mayors Against Illegal Guns. That's why Bloomberg and the gun control groups he funds tried to pressure Facebook into shutting down discussion of Second Amendment issues on its social media platforms. Bloomberg failed. NRA members and our supporters will continue to have a platform to exercise their First Amendment rights in support of their Second Amendment freedoms," the NRA said in a statement.
