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The social networking site allows users to "deactivate" an account, which prevents others members of the public from seeing it. However, the company doesn't wipe all the user's data - including photos and messages - from its servers.

The data is allegedly retained to make it easier for people who decide to reactivate their account, but makes live difficult for people who want all trace of their personal data destroyed. They would have to manually delete all their photos and posts

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from their profile, before deactivating their account.

Facebook's policy could breach the Data Protection Act, which stipulates companies should not retain data for longer than is necessary.

"Many people are posting content on social networking sites without thinking about the electronic footprint they leave behind," a spokesman for the Information Commissioner's Office tells Channel 4. "It is important that individuals consider this when putting information online. However, it is equally important that websites also take some responsibility.

"In particular they should ensure that personal information is not retained for longer than necessary especially when the information relates to a person who no longer uses the site."

In a statement to Channel 4, Facebook insists it complies with the Data Protection Act. "We give users the notice that the UK Data Protection Act requires in order to inform them about what information is collected. We also give users granular control over what information they share and who they share it with."