CRN.com reported Friday that Google Reader made a major misstep by revealing user data to users’ connections without user approval. The Reader is intended to share RSS feeds and readable content with one’s friends and connections. However, information was shared without first allowing Google Reader users to opt-in or select which connections could receive the data.

According to the article, Facebook Beacon made the same mistake some time ago. It’s unusual to see giant web corporations lacking the foresight to handle this type of situation in advance. But when hundreds of complaints start coming in, it’s hard to turn a blind eye.

The Web is obviously the most advanced method of information storage and retrieval the public has ever experienced. eCommerce and social media are such staples in our society today that companies should automatically place user privacy and data sharing policies at the top of the list of importance.

When Google can make the mistake of releasing thousands of details about its users without realizing there’s a problem, allow yourself to become alarmed. As Google continues to grow and store a greater percentage of the world’s information, someone has to hold them accountable. I personally used Google Reader only once, at the behest of Graywolf. I found it to be boring and not nearly as interesting as reading my own feeds and twittering. It’s no big loss to me. My only concern is what this kind of mistake says about the future state of affairs.

Stay tuned.

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