Social Media -- Do's and Don'ts

Think, Type, Post.

When posting to social media sites you need to think about what you are posting. Prior to posting, ask yourself these two questions:

• What could a person do with this information?
• Could it compromise my safety or the safety of my family or my spouse’s unit?

Think before you post. 

Online is forever in many cases. Just because you delete a photo doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Another user might have screenshot your deleted image and posted it elsewhere. The best way to keep sensitive information secure is to never post it in the first place. Don’t engage in topics or conversations that could leave you regretting your words years, months, or even seconds later.

When in doubt over the appropriateness of a social media post use common sense and use the acronym WWGT—as in What Would Granny Think if she saw this post coming from me?

TYPE:

Use the less is more approach. Don’t share too much information (otherwise known as TMI). Some things are better left unsaid.

• Don’t post classified info on your page (troop movements, locations, missions, etc.)
• Don’t post casualty information before the next of kin has been notified.
• Don’t post photos from your spouse’s locations.
• Don’t check into locations. People can track your activities and know when you are not home.
• Don’t post information protected by the Privacy Act.
• Don’t post personally identifiable information.
• Post unit morale or personnel problems.
• Don’t share your *strong* opinions (read: political or controversial subject matter). Some discussions should be held offline.

POST:

• Do be selective. You don’t have to accept every friend request that comes your way.
• Do model good behavior. Our online activity may feel private, but it is not. 
• Do practice positivity. If you like a post, like it! Got an encouraging word to say? Go ahead and comment. Post a story, video or picture that’s bound to make people smile. If you’re going to act impulsively on social media, let this be the way you do it. 
• Do maximize your security settings on social media platforms.
• Do talk to your Family about OPSEC, so they know what can and cannot be posted.
• Do turn off geotagging and location-based social networking on phones and digital cameras.

If all else fails, remember to ask yourself when posting, commenting or sending a message: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?