I guess you could say that goes for the people with #PrayForParis images on their profile pictures, too? It's basically the same thing. Out of all the people I know (including me and my family) that have put this french flag filter on their DP, they've actually donated money to the cause so yes, they are helping. If you put the flag on your DP or make statuses about it without "moving a finger besides writing those" like Willy said then you do have a point. The whole idea of putting the pictures/flags on your profile picture is to show your solidarity and support for the victims of the attacks. If you don't like it, then just ignore it and move on lol.
