EWeek.com has run an interesting story on AOL and some recent changes to their Terms of Service for the instant messenger users [Sorry, link no longer available.] .
“Although you or the owner of the Content retain ownership of all right, title and interest in Content that you post to any AIM Product, AOL owns all right, title and interest in any compilation, collective work or other derivative work created by AOL using or incorporating this Content.
“You waive any right to privacy. You waive any right to inspect or approve uses of the content or to be compensated for any such uses,”
This has led many to believe that any private instant messenger communications can therefore be made public at AOL’s discretion . Since these questions have arisen AOL has responded but not to the satisfaction of many of those concerned. AOL basically states that private instant messenger communications are exempt, though this is not specifically mentioned in the TOS.
AOL probably has no, and never had, intentions to allow instant message be made public, but until this is sufficiently clarified in the TOS I think precautions are in order.
Let the Pole Position Marketing team help you velocitize your web marketing, expand your online presence and grow your business through SEO, PPC, social media, as well as consulting, speaking and/or in-house training. Contact our pit crew at 866-685-3374.
Stoney deGeyter leads an exceptional crew of web marketers who work overtime to make him look good. He's a prolific writer on all things web marketing and has published a few ebooks, tutorials and tools that help make online marketing (look) easier. He's also a very friendly guy who loves to help others velocitize their web marketing. In his free time Stoney get's involved in community services and ministries, enjoys his friends and loves on his kids. Read Stoney's full bio.
Follow Stoney:
