Instagram Policy Change Angers Many; What Do You Think?

Instagram has quickly become a popular online photo-sharing service that is used by millions worldwide. And so its recent policy change on photo use understandably has struck a nerve.

According to media reports, Instagram -- which is owned by Facebook -- announced Monday (December 17) terms of service that included a clause stating that Instagram had the right to turn images into advertisements without any approval from or compensation for users starting Jan. 16.

This likely is part of Facebook's drive to make money from the service that it bought for $715 million in cash and stock.

The reaction Tuesday was harsh, the Los Angeles Times reported. Even Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg's wedding photographer was not pleased.

"Pro or not if a company wants to use your photos for advertising they need to TELL you and PAY you," Noah Kalina said on Twitter.

Now Instagram says its intent was misunderstood and it vows to revise the policy.

Yahoo News reported that the company announced it would reword language from the policy and terms of service that said: “A business or other entity may pay us to display your username, likeness, photos … and/or any other actions you take … without any compensation to you.”

But Kevin Systrom, an Instagram co-founder, wrote in a post on the company's blog that it was never the company's intention to sell photos but rather to use a customer's information to allow businesses and other users to advertise to them as a way of gaining followers. He called the initial wording of the agreement "confusing" and "our mistake."

The Twitter hashtag #boycottinstagram was full of negative reaction Tuesday. Tweeted one user: "My Instagram account is deleted. Our privacy shouldn't be for sale.#BoycottInstagram http://news.cnet.com/8301-13578_3-57559710-38"

-- What was your reaction to Instagram's policy? Will you continue to use the service? Share your thoughts in the comments below.