Apple is releasing a new, possibly creepy app for the iPhone called “Friendthem.”  The app allows you to see other Friendthem users and their Facebooks that are within 1500 feet of you.  The app uses location-based software to find other Friendthem users, making it effortless to add new people and without going through the hassle of searching them.

The app displays a potential friends list, consisting of users that are within 1500 feet, their name, mutual friends, where they are from, and their current location.  An Android version will also be released soon.

There are many pros and cons about this app.  On the plus side, you won’t have to search too much for that cutie you just met at the bar, connecting with co-workers will be a breeze, and all Friendthem users won’t have to do much searching for new acquaintances.  Users can send friend requests right on the spot, or save the request for later.

On the down side, however, this could potentially be dangerous.  Maybe I’m just being paranoid, but from a girl’s perspective, I would not want people on the street or in the mall to be able to pull up my Facebook, name, where I’m from, and my location with the tap of a screen.  It would make me very uneasy to know that other people around me can find my Facebook page with an app on their phone—without me even telling them my name.  Facebook should be a place for social networking, not stalking people you see in the coffee shop!

Fortunately, the only way your page will come up on Friendthem is if you use the app yourself.  Users can also control what information of theirs will be shown to others on the app, as well.  Any user should still be aware of the exposure of their personal information that comes with this app and the potential risks.

What do you think? Will “Friendthem” be a new, smooth pathway for Facebook connections or just a new way for creepers to pursue you? Let us know!

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