Law Banning Sex Offenders From Facebook Overturned

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An Indiana law that makes it illegal for registered sex offenders to use Facebook and other social networks has today (Jan. 23) been overturned by 7th U.S. Circuit of Appeals in Chicago.

However, Facebook's own terms of service expressly prohibit sex offenders from using its site, reading: "You will not use Facebook if you are a convicted sex offender."

The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana filed a class-action suit on behalf of sex offenders who continued to be restricted from social networking after they had served probation. The court ruled that the ban was too broad and did not protect children, and said, "It [the Indiana law] broadly prohibits substantial protected speech rather than specifically targeting the evil of improper communication to minors."

Facebook Security Quiz: Are You Safe?

With more than 900 million users, Facebook is easily the most popular social networking site. But how safe are those who use it? Test your knowledge of Facebook security.

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With more than 900 million users, Facebook is easily the most popular social networking site. But how safe are those who use it? Test your knowledge of Facebook security.