Airmen warned against social networking dangers

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Christopher Marasky
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AB, Japan --  As the Air Force conducts the war on terror through air, space and cyber-space, Airmen have the ability to shape the events of the information war from the comfort of their very own home..for good or bad. 

Social networking sites provide a good opportunity for military members to share information and videos with friends and family. They're also a potential hazard for individuals who aren't careful with the information they post. 

The Pacific Air Forces commander sent out a message addressing social networking Oct. 30, 2006. The message said Airmen should not post content if it dishonors the Air Force, violates military equal opportunity standards, violates public affairs standards, violates our operations security, or facilitates personal identity theft. 

Individuals who post information to a website can be held responsible for anything posted that violates the Uniform Code of Military Justice or operations security, said Capt. Timothy Daniels, 18th Wing Staff Judge Advocate deputy chief of military justice. 

"Posting classified or sensitive official information violates Air Force Instructions," he said. "Members who advocate illegal drug use, sexual assault, sexual harassment, or the commission of other criminal acts are likewise subject to UCMJ action. 

"Further, posting sexually explicit images and using sexually explicit language may subject the member to UCMJ action," said Captain Daniels. "Especially if the message is directed to a child under 16 years old." 

Along with potential legal ramifications, videos and information posted to the internet can violate OPSEC and provide the enemy with information, said Capt. Jeffrey Schrum, 18th Wing OPSEC manager. 

"Our adversaries actively look for information that is valuable to them," he said. "This information may not be classified, but may fill in intelligence gaps. The goal is to not make it easier for an adversary to collect on us." 

Part of the information war the military is conducting as part of the Global War on Terrorism is in perception as well, said Capt. Gerardo Gonzalez, 18th Wing Public Affairs deputy chief. 

"The war on terror is our top Air Force priority," he said. "It's largely an information war. Our enemies know they cannot defeat us by force on force, so they have turned to using information to sway public opinion, gain sympathy and inspire others to fight."
 
"If we post inappropriate material on the Web, we're helping them," said Captain Gonzalez. 

It's up to Airmen to maintain their vigilance about what information they give out and their conduct at all times, said Captain Gonzalez. 

"Airmen have an inherent responsibility that comes with wearing the uniform, to conduct themselves in a positive, professional manner on-duty or off," he said. "To fall short of that and then propagate this shortfall via the Web is damaging to our service and our nation." 

"Social networking sites can be used for good or evil purposes," said Captain Daniels. 

"Remember to be wise and honorable when posting online."