Can companies or employers make you show them your facebook?

[Michael]

Yes, banks are now looking at your Facebook friends as a way to see if YOU are reliable. I guess they figure that if you are reliable, you will only associate with reliable people.

Now, for the bigger issue:

Banks aren't the only organizations looking into Facebook to weed out "undesirables". Employers and schools are doing this tool. Prospective employers and universities (also some private high schools) will ask for access to your Facebook page. They are looking for any posts or pictures that will show that you are not a "serious minded" person.

The reason these organizations are allowed to get away with this is because there are no laws governing this type of thing. They aren't FORCING you to turn over your information, however, if you want the loan, the job, or to go to that particular school, you will either turn it over or be rejected because you "have something to hide".

So, if you're looking for a loan, a job, or place in a good school, clean up your Facebook! When you post too much information or too many photos, it will come back and bite you in the butt. I've referenced 2 blog posts that tell why you need to tone things down.