I’ve had quite a few messages on Facebook from previous users of Delete Checker that can no longer find it. So here’s a quick blog post that’ll hopefully get indexed by Google and therefore make Delete Checker findable for those who used to use it….or those that want a Delete Checker!

On the 16th of April, Facebook removed the Delete Checker application without notice. A little research indicated that Facebook had removed all applications that added the unintended functionality of checking if users had deleted you from their friends list. For those interested, Section II, 5a of the Facebook Developers Platform Policy outlines that “You must not circumvent our intended limitations on core Facebook features. For example: You must not inform a user that someone has removed the user as a friend.” What’s funny is that Delete Checker was approved for the Facebook Application Directory, which is not an automated process. Before removal, Delete Checker had approximately 2,500 users…now it has 30.

But don’t fret! I’ve recreated the application so that is accessible to all. However, I have not published the application to the directory. This basically means that unless you know where to look, you won’t find the application. I had two “Delete Checker” applications, one for production and one for development. The development application was not removed by Facebook showing that it’s unlikely they will remove applications that are not published to the directory. The only possibility of removal is if someone explicitly reports the application….but I’ll be sure to put it back up if it disappears, so check back here if it does!

So, here’s what you need to know:

What is Delete Checker?

Delete Checker keeps track of which friends deleted you on Facebook. It also keeps track of when friends deactivate their account or someone ignores your friend request. You can setup Delete Checker to automatically post insults about deleted friends to your wall.

Where is Delete Checker located?

The application page, where you can install, review, discuss features/bugs and become a fan is currently located here: http://www.facebook.com/apps/application.php?id=109342089106138

The direct link to the application is located here: http://apps.facebook.com/deletechecker_fo/

What do I need to do to make it work?

Both new users and previous users will need to re-authenticate the application for offline access (the application will prompt you, or follow the Instructions). If you were a previous user and you had automatic stream posts enabled, you will need to re-authenticate the application for stream posting by visiting the Settings tab as this is not enabled by default. Previous users will still have their log intact as it is stored on my own server and untouchable by Facebook.

I have a different question. Where’s more information?

You can visit the FAQ (highly recommended that you read this) for the application or post on the application’s discussions board.

The application is in violation of the developer policy. Is my account at risk?

While the application still violates the platform policy, users shouldn’t worry about the loss of their accounts. If anything, Facebook will just disable the application and possibly give me a warning about the application.