26 May 2010 Last updated at 21:26

Picture guide: Facebook privacy

Facebook has changed its privacy settings, following a storm of protest from users and official complaints by consumers groups and regulators. This quick guide outlines the basic changes.

Users will see a single screen where they can control who can see the content they post. Facebook will recommend default settings that allow status updates to be seen by anyone. However, a user can change these with one click.

The older more "granular" privacy settings will still be available on the site for people who want greater control. These can be found by clicking on "customise settings" at the bottom of the new privacy page.

A common complaint about the previous settings was that people could easily see who a person was friends with. This can now be edited in the "basic directory information" accessible from the single privacy settings page.

It has also made it easier for people to control which sites and applications, such as games, can access user's data. Controls are accessed by clicking "edit your settings" under the Applications and Websites section of the privacy page.

Users have fine grained control over what they share through applications and can even ensure no information is shared. The "public search" option allows people to control whether their profile appears in search engine results.

The new settings will roll out over the "next few days". Users will be prompted with a message on their homescreen explaining the new settings and how to adjust them.

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Picture guide: Facebook privacy

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