Introducing Early Testing of Data Use Checkup

Protecting people’s data is a responsibility we share with all developers on our platform.

Last year, we announced a new framework for protecting people’s privacy and the information they choose to share. Since then, we’ve changed not only how Facebook handles data, but also how we hold our partners accountable for handling data obtained from Facebook.

Today, we are announcing early testing of Data Use Checkup, a new annual process for developers to ensure API access and data use comply with the Facebook Platform Policy. Developers enrolled in testing should complete this request for each of their apps within 60 days, or risk losing their API access.

Data Use Checkup differs from App Review, a submission process in which developers justify that their intended use of certain API permissions is in compliance with our platform policy and provides the best possible experience for people and clients. App Review includes a manual review process by a Facebook representative, whereas Data Use Checkup is a self-service tool that can be completed entirely by developers.

Starting today, we will enroll a small set of apps into Data Use Checkup, ensuring developers have a positive experience with this new integrity measure. If your app is enrolled, you will receive information via a developer alert and banner on the App Dashboard.

To prepare for a broader rollout of Data Use Checkup, developers should:

• Update contact information in Notification Settings to include up-to-date contact details, ensuring you receive timely alerts and notifications.
• Assign an app admin for each app within your organization by going to “Roles” in your App Dashboard. Any app admin will be able to complete the Data Use Checkup, so they should be in a position of authority to act on behalf of your organization.
• Audit your apps, removing any apps that are no longer needed. To remove an app, go to App Dashboard > Settings > Advanced. This will ensure you’re only receiving developer alerts and notifications for apps that you need.
• Review the approved permissions and features your apps have access to, removing any that your app no longer uses. Go to App Dashboard > App Review > Permissions and Features, and click the Remove button for any permissions and features you do not use.

We also recognize that many in our partner community are navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re committed to introducing Data Use Checkup to our community in a way that doesn’t create too much additional burden, and are eager for product feedback that will allow us to continue to improve the developer experience.

Thank you for your continued patience and partnership as we build a safer platform.