Although this search feature has been around for months, it is still somewhat of a mystery to most users. What is it? How do you get it? What is the purpose? Is my information safe?
As of now, Facebook is running a trial version of the graph search to select people in the US. There is also a waiting list to get the graph search. So, since it's so limited, how do you know your information is safe?
Well, according to the Facebook privacy information, most of your information is kept from random people finding it, as long as you have your settings correct. However, everything seems to be hidden pretty well, so it is advisable to go through and change everything you possibly can if you wish to keep your information, pictures, likes, etc from other people who you do not know seeing it. While this feature may be nice and an entirely new way to search, it is even more important now to ensure that your information stays out of the wrong hands.
However, there is much good that comes with this search. For instance, if you want to search for people in the San Francisco area that are interested in culinary art and photography, you can easily search Facebook's database of information and find them. While this search will definitely benefit all users, I can see the real benefit in the eyes of a businessmen. Now, you could potentially find your target customers in a simple search feature, without having to target a large number of individuals. This technique, if handled correctly, could allow you to get your business information to your key customers and help build your business accordingly.
While this seems like a great tool, I think anyone who is nervous about what information they have out on the web should take caution. It does not take much for someone to search (say a current/potential employer) and find those one drunken night photos you posted. Again, it all comes back to making sure you keep a professional brand at all times, personal or professional. You never know who is looking for you!
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