Facebook clarifies data use policy ahead of IPO

(AP) Facebook is updating its data use policy in an attempt to give users more clarity on how the information they share is used by the company. The move comes a week ahead of its expected initial public offering of stock.

Full coverage of Facebook at Tech Talk
Facebook IPO, Mark Zuckerberg kicks off roadshow
Facebook IPO, shares range from $28 to $35

Facebook said Friday that the changes are in response to an audit by Irish data-protection authorities last year.

As part of the changes, Facebook has created a new section of its data use policy - formerly known as privacy policy - to explain how it uses "cookies." Cookies are commonly used to track people's activity around the Web.

Facebook's international headquarters are based in Dublin, Ireland, a member of the European Union. This means the company is required to comply with European data privacy laws.