The theory of the privacy paradox in an online environment states that internet users
are concerned about privacy yet do little to safeguard it (Barnes, 2006). This study reveals
Facebook users are taking protective action to ensure their online privacy and are demonstrating
caution in their online behaviour. However, the study also shows Facebook users
are willing to part with personal information and interact with a broad definition of online
‘friends’. Arguably, Facebook users’ desire for social interaction overcomes privacy anxieties.
A theoretical implication from this research is that the term ‘privacy paradox’ may
be too strong in the social networking environment and perhaps ‘privacy trade-off’ would
be a more appropriate term. Protective action is being taken in social networking sites but
users still willingly trade privacy for the social factor of social networking sites.