I'm not convinced it was ever just a website run by a couple of college kids. Because I do respect the privacy of the person who told me this, I can't give enough details to make it solid; however, a very trustworthy person in a trustworthy position worked with Mark in the early days. When they voiced concern for the privacy of users, Mark replied that he would protect the privacy of the third parties. He, in no uncertain terms, said that user information/farming is where money is made. This was his intent all along. Eep.

My dad recently says to me, he says "Ya know. The internet is destroying the newspaper industry! What do you think of that?" And I replied, "Dad, the automobile companies are destroying the horse and buggy industry. What do you think of that?"

Same thing. Adapt or Die. Change is inevitable. Consider the funny ads, eg. the best superbowl ads... millions of people download them ON PURPOSE. Market it right, and you'll be fine. Shove a flashing monkey and a glove in my face, FAIL.