Facebook to block users involved in illegal gun sales

San Francisco: Facebook has decided to block users who have involved themselves in  illegal gun sales, using the Instagram photo-sharing platform.The social network will even block members under 18 years of age from viewing pages or timeline posts reported to involve private gun sales, setting up online checkpoints to warn people regarding illegal deals.

"We will not permit people to post offers to sell regulated items that indicate a willingness to evade or help others evade the law," said Monika Bickert, Global policy management head of Facebook.  People offering guns for sale on Facebook, will not be allowed to indicate that background checks are not required or that sales will be done across state lines without involving licensed firearms dealers, specified Bickert.

Facebook worked with Eric Schneiderman, New York attorney General and other advocacy groups to modify policies to fight illegal gun sales.  "Responsible social media sites know that it is in no one's interest for their sites to become a 21st century black market in dangerous and illegal goods that place several families and communities at risk," added Schneiderman.

"By taking these unprecedented educational and enforcement steps, we've been able to strike an important balance in helping people express themselves, while promoting a safe and responsible community," concluded Bickert.