Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/711198
HANDLING THE MEDIA The Internet makes it easier than ever to inform the world of your every move with just a tap of your finger. While it may seem obvious that you shouldn't publicly offer up information about your family member's unit, location or deployment and return dates, sometimes the line between public and private information becomes clouded on social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter or your personal blog. Remember that anything you post or comment on is out there for the world to read. It's important for your safety and that of your deployed family member that you avoid posting anything that advertises that your family member is deployed or that you're alone. If you mention the deployment, refrain from using specific dates and identifying information no matter how insignificant it may seem. In general, it is good practice to make sure that you have enabled security settings on your social media pages. Enabling security settings lets you control who sees your page, reads your posts and clicks through your pictures. Even if you've enabled security settings on your page, remember that not everyone has. Commenting on another person's pictures or posts with information about a deployment can also jeopardize operations security. While a less common problem, it's worth mentioning that if you're approached by the press, all the topics that are off limits for social media should also be avoided, including: • Exact locations or numbers of service members • Deployment or return dates • Planned troop movements • Personal information (e.g., birthdates, addresses, phone numbers, etc.) Media outlets keep everyone informed and keep you connected to your deployed family member, but consider OPSEC before making a statement or posting an update or blog entry. Use media to its full advantage, but just be conscious of what you share with the world! Remember, while the world is full of honest people, anyone can unknowingly compromise your personal security or the security of the military community through stray pieces of information. Do your part and practice good operations security.