The Data Protection Commissioner is looking for clarification from Facebook after the social network notified users of planned changes to its privacy policy.

Facebook, which was recently audited by the Data Protection Commissioner, informed users of the changes in an email today.

The company recently proposed changes to its data-use policy and its statement of rights and responsibilities.

It said the changes give users more detailed information about shared data, including reminders about what's visible to other people on Facebook, and tools for managing Facebook messages.

"We will be seeking urgent further clarification from Facebook Ireland and if we consider that the proposed changes require a specific consent from EU users we will require Facebook to do this," the agency's deputy commissioner Gary Davis said.

In September, Facebook told the watchdog it had made a number of changes to how it handled user data, including the deletion of facial recognition data.

"We note that this is the consultation stage of their process and that until that stage is over these changes will not be tabled to users," said Mr Davis. "We are currently examining the proposed changes and consider that further clarity will be required in relation to the full effect of some of the changes."

Facebook Ireland is responsible for users of the site outside the US. As a result the Data Protection Commissioner is responsible for ensuring the company complies with EU and Irish law.

In September, the commissioner said the company had made satisfactory progress on a number of issues, including giving users access to data they placed on the site, the deletion of such data from Facebook when it was no longer required, and the adequate resourcing of compliance functions in Ireland.

However, it still had work to do on a "small number" of issues, and EU regulators would continue to watch the firm closely.

Additional reporting: Bloomberg