Social networking puts operational security, Soldiers' lives at risk

By Eve Meinhardt, ParaglideOctober 2, 2009

FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Social networking sites have changed the way many people use the Web. With just a few clicks, hundreds of people you know, used to know, or may never meet, can see photos of you on vacation, find out what you're doing at this exact moment and get personal information like your home address, phone number, how many children you have, your spouse's name and more.

This easy access to information and the compulsive need for status updates endangers Fort Bragg Soldiers and their Families in ways that are not always realized.

Soldiers complaining about a flight delay on the way to Afghanistan in a status update exposes security information.

Posted photos can provide valuable information to the enemy; revealing weapons, vehicles, locations and other details that may not mean much to us, but could be the final piece of the puzzle to them. Families contribute to the risk by posting countdowns until their Soldier comes home and making seemingly innocent comments like "Johnny is out on a mission tonight, keep him in your prayers" or "Sarah comes home today. Off to Green Ramp."

Kellie Neuschwanger, Security and Intelligence Division, Directorate of Emergency Services, said that the safety of Soldiers, the Families and everyone working on Fort Bragg should be at the forefront of everyone's mind when they write a "tweet" or update their social networking pages.

"Each one of us - Soldier, Family member, civilian or contractor - has knowledge that is valuable to the enemy. Even providing mundane details like what time a PT (physical training) formation is taking place or where construction is on Fort Bragg can compromise OPSEC (operational security)," said Neuschwanger.

"It is important for all to understand that just because they can access these social networking sites, both at work and at home, does not give you permission to discuss operational and organizational information on them."

Fort Bragg's Army Community Service provides guidance and training for Families about using caution when posting information on the Web.

"The use of social networking sites can be a great way for military Families to maintain a link with friends and Family. It is important to use good OPSEC measures when using these sites so the movement and mission of the servicemembers are not compromised. This includes the potential vulnerabilities for Families in their servicemember's absence," said Charlotte Watson, Mobilization and Deployment Program, ACS.

Watson said Soldiers and Family members should think about limiting discussions about current deployment status and position, as well as posting pictures with detailed explanations of location, dates and names. She encourages caution when posting pictures that can tell a story of Families' status like the birth of a baby, anniversary dates, birthdays and date of deployment/redeployment.

"The reality is that the adversary is not just located in Iraq, Afghanistan or other foreign countries. Often times adversaries are the armed robber, rapist or pedophile, some are known to authorities and some are unknown. Revealing daily or weekly routines or schedules can give information to those who may use it against you," Watson said.

Neuschwanger agreed and said awareness is key when posting any information on a social networking site.

"Many people 'friend' individuals that they haven't seen since high school or even longer. Those people you haven't spoken to in years may be interested in more than just seeing pictures of your daughter's first tooth. They could have a hundred reasons to gather information on your Family, the Army and Fort Bragg. It is in your best interest to limit the information you post to protect you, your Family and your co-workers," she said.

Even if you trust all of your online friends, remember that more than just the people you know can view photos linked to these sites. Plus, many sites include a caveat in their user agreements that once you post content on their Web site, it belongs to them. So, someday all of your photos, comments and contact information could potentially be sold to the highest bidder.

"Once the information is posted on the Web, it can never be completely removed and may be used by the site's owners in other forums. So, think twice before you post," said Neuschwanger.

The ACS Mobilization and Deployment Program provides OPSEC briefings for Families. This briefing can be requested by units during any phase of deployment by visiting www.fortbraggmwr.com/request.php. It informs and educates military Families on OPSEC as well as safety. The training provides tools and tips that will keep Families and servicemembers safe during all phases of deployment.