Anticipating questions from users about why they're being tracked by Facebook as Google (Android) and Apple (iOS) release new operating systems, the social network took to a blog post-Monday to explain its thinking.

Location tracking "helps improve ads and keep you and the Facebook community safe," wrote Paul McDonald, engineering director, location platform. "Features like Find Wi-Fi and Nearby Friends use precise location even when you're not using the app to make sure that alerts and tools are accurate and personalized for you."

In the post, McDonald suggests that the user can control whether your device shares precise location information with Facebook via the Location Services settings on phone or tablet.

However, he freely admits that even if you turn off Location Services, Facebook can still grab at your data. "We may still understand your location using things like check-ins, events, and information about your internet connection."

Privacy experts, we've spoken to say that if you don't want to be tracked but still want to use Facebook, don't use the app. Log on via the mobile web browser instead.