Pay Facebook $1 to Message Strangers

Want to message someone you don't know on Facebook? You can . . . for a price.

Facebook introduced new features Thursday, including new message filters and a system where strangers can now message you for a fee, according to its corporate newsroom. The experiment will be tested at $1.

Essentially, Facebook is saying that if strangers have to pay to message you, then your spam will be reduced.

Here's what FB said directly.

We will give a small number of people the option to pay to have a message routed to the Inbox rather than the Other folder of a recipient that they are not connected with. . . . Several commentators and researchers have noted that imposing a financial cost on the sender may be the most effective way to discourage unwanted messages and facilitate delivery of messages that are relevant and useful. 

Facebook is quick to point out that this is only happening in the United States, only between individuals and only once a week.
 
While Facebook suggests fans might send messages, or those seeking jobs, we see this as a way to monetize Facebook even more. Sure it's a beta test between individuals now -- but soon, it could easily lead to a pay-to-play spammed inbox.
 
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