Select social media sites no longer blocked at Elmendorf

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Gross
  • 3rd Wing Public Affairs
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Nearly two weeks have passed since Elmendorf was named as one of the five experimental bases for social media access on government computers.

After being instituted March 30, the 3rd Communications Squadron's commander, Lt. Col. Scott Jackson, said everything seems to be going fine and the policy is effective as long as it's being used correctly.

"It's beneficial to have easier access to a healthy exchange of ideas and information while promoting the great things our Airmen are doing in defense of our nation," said Colonel Jackson.

Social media is capable of creating opportunities to promote and enhancing the Air Force mission.

Colonel Jackson gave the example of FedEx posting an aircraft safety video, with a technician commenting on safety tips. If an Airmen from an aircraft maintenance unit were to reference this video about the same aircraft they maintain, it could be beneficial.

The new policy opens up new ways to keep everybody informed.

The 3rd Wing Public Affairs office is able to provide information through social media outlets. Those who don't normally visit the Air Force or Elmendorf Web sites, can access Elmendorf's Twitter and Facebook accounts. Elmendorf is also active on YouTube, where mission videos are posted. PACAF pixels is a blog site that allows Airmen to submit blogs about things going on at their base.

"The eased restrictions on these social media sites is a great sign that we are more prepared to defend our networks," added Colonel Jackson.

Although social media has it's benefits, security still has to be primary. Network protection is set up in a multi-tier structure. The first line of defense will be at Detachment 1 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Hawaii. The second line includes the 561st Networks Operations Squadron at Peterson AFB, Colo. and the last line of defense is the 624th Operations Center at Lackland AFB, Texas.

Colonel Jackson said each of these units provide excellent protection and expertise to direct response and mitigate security issues. It is the job of the Airmen to ensure that sensitive or classified information doesn't end up on social networking sites.

"Whether posting on an official or personal Web site, every Airman is responsible for their 'electronic conduct.' The same basic rules of engagement apply for any public forum, on or off the internet," said General Gary North, Pacific Air Forces commander, in a memorandum dated April 1.

The general also listed some security checkpoints:

· Abide by operational security rules and protect critical information.
· Do not post information that compromised privacy or facilitates identity theft, or puts you and other personnel at personal or professional risk.
· Conduct yourself professionally at all times, both in text and imagery.
· If you are unsure, seek command or Public Affairs guidance and refer issues beyond your expertise to PA for response.

Personnel who access the social media sites should discuss with their supervisor to determine what is an acceptable amount of time spent on social networking sites at work. Use of social media should not affect official duties or overburden government systems.

The member should know when he or she is abusing their privileges, and should only be on social media sites for official business. When it comes down to it, don't abuse it and use common sense, said Colonel Jackson.