AFTER the scandal broke last week over allegations research firm Cambridge Analytica misused the data of 50 million Facebook users, it promoted many to take the step of deleting the social network from their lives.

I'm old enough to remember the original Facebook, first signing up to the network 11 years ago. Back then it was just a fun way to chat to friends, share some photos and generally have a laugh with the posts - just a better version of Friends Reunited.

I never imagined what Facebook would snowball into becoming back then, no one could have.

A Facebook backlash at what the social network has turned into was maybe always likely. But after the news millions of Facebook users data was shared to Cambridge Analytica without their knowledge, and then used by Donald Trump’s election campaign to build psychological profiles of voters, the backlash has gone further.

Last week people across the world decided to delete their accounts and urged others to follow, with the hashtags #DeleteFacebook and #BoycottFacebook trending.

Yesterday it was revealed Facebook’s founder and chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, will not give evidence to a British parliamentary inquiry, with MPs calling that announcement as "absolutely astonishing".

Of course Mr Zuckerberg has spent the last few days dealing with the fall out, taking out full page ads in seven British newspapers and three American ones to apologise over the "breach of trust".

For many though the damage has already been done, and it is too late.

Even before news of this scandal broke, I have noticed in the last few years I have moved away from Facebook, preferring other social networks such as Twitter.

I use Instagram and Whatsapp much more as well, although I realise those are Facebook owned, something that someone trying to boycott Facebook may not be aware of.

I just hope this whole scandal is a big wake up call to everyone. Facebook should be more aware now about the trust people expect of them handling their personal information.

And all Facebook users should also be careful in the information they share. If you are not comfortable with something, simply don't share it.