Facebook's data changes will hamper research and oversight, academics warn

Researchers sign open letter saying privacy restrictions 'likely to compound the real problem'

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A group of the world's leading internet academics say Facebook's decision to tighten access to user data in reaction to the Cambridge Analytica scandal will actually hamper genuine research and oversight of the platform.

An open letter, signed by 27 researchers and published on Wednesday, said while the privacy changes might generate positive publicity for Facebook and its chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, they were "likely to compound the real problem, further diminishing transparency and opportunities for independent oversight".