Since its launch on 18 August, Facebook Places has been understandably hot in the social media news.

Foursquare has been placed in the spotlight as its main competitor; and while some have predicted that Foursquare will be wiped out by the new app, others have been more hesitant on declaring a surefire victory for Facebook.

Although Facebook does have a massive userbase, it still lacks the engaging game mechanics of Foursquare.

Many Facebook users have also been concerned about the security threats that the app poses to their privacy. CNN's guide to Facebook Places tries to quell some of these common fears while providing information on “how to change (or get rid of) Places”.

Nice Try, Zuckerberg: Why Facebook Places Won't Kill Foursquare [NYMag]

Facebook Places vs the Location-Based World [TechCrunch]

Foursquare Experiences Record Signup After Launch of Facebook Places [Mashable]

Lady Gaga to Steal Britney Spears' Twitter Crown [Reuters]

Facebook Places: Here's How it Works [CNN]