I think if it's that bad, then the best way of responding is to stop using it.

It is utterly ridiculous
You're totally right, marcellus. And I'm seriously considering it, despite what I know it will do to my ability to stay in touch with people, with living rurally in the UK - but I'm sure I can find another suitable, morally/ethically/socially accountable place on the interweb to be social.