OPSEC more important with new Internet capabilities

  • Published
  • By the 4th Communications Squadron
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  As the Air Force opens its network to Internet-based capabilities including social networking services, the 4th Communication Squadron needs Airmen to keep operations security, network protection and professionalism at the forefront.

The Air Force opened the network to Internet-based social networking sites at Seymour Johnson May 1. The implementation plan allows access while still ensuring the Air Force maintains a tight and secure network to defend against malicious activity, safeguarding missions that depend on cyberspace.

In today's age of Internet media, Airmen have access to many Internet-based capabilities which allow them to easily and quickly share information with people around the world. However, with these great capabilities comes an even greater personal and professional responsibility.

Whether on or off duty, Airmen must pay particular attention to several areas when communicating via the Internet.

1. Operations security and information security - Do not post classified or sensitive information. If unsure, do not post the information until you speak with a supervisor, the unit security or OPSEC manager, or the public affairs office.

2. Seemingly innocent information, when combined, may reveal valuable intelligence to our enemies. Do not reveal information that could suggest troop movements, system information, weapons information, military organizations or other valuable intelligence to a potential adversary. Although some information is not classified, sensitive information may provide small pieces to a larger puzzle that could be useful to our adversaries.

3. Do not post defamatory, libelous, vulgar, obscene, abusive, profane, threatening, hateful, racially, ethnically, or otherwise offensive or illegal information or material.

4. In addition to protecting information, do your part to protect the Air Force network from malicious attacks such as viruses, Trojan horse, worms and spyware, which can significantly disrupt operations. Beware of unfamiliar links, downloads, attachments, "apps" or plugins which could contain malicious code intended to jeopardize the security of the computer. Additionally, do not permit anything to run on your computer you did not install or you do not understand.

5. When posting photos of military personnel in uniform, ensure all safety and uniform dress and appearance policies and guidelines are adhered to. Check to ensure personal protective gear is worn, restricted area badges are removed and the uniform is worn correctly.

6. Avoid posting photos of military personnel in social situations highlighting or promoting the use of alcoholic beverages or other situations that may bring discredit to the Air Force.

7. Airmen discussing issues related to their career field or a personal experience is acceptable. Be careful not to imply you have expertise in areas for which you have no first-hand knowledge.

8. Do not use any words, logos or other marks that would infringe upon the trademark, service mark, certificate mark or other intellectual property rights of owners of such marks without the permission of such owners.

9. Do not post information that would infringe upon the propriety, privacy or personal rights of others.

10. Avoid revealing too much personal information about yourself in social spaces. Be aware of any personal information you release, such as family names, addresses, birthdates, travel plans, etc.

11. If posting something questionable or that may reflect negatively on the Air Force, review relevant guidance thoroughly. If still unsure, and the post is about the Air Force, discuss the proposed post with the local public affairs office. Ultimately, Airmen are individually accountable for what they post.

12. Department of Defense computer systems are provided only for authorized U.S. government use and limited personal use. "Limited personal use" must be of reasonable duration and frequency approved by supervisors and does not negatively affect performance of official duties, overburden systems or reflect adversely on the Air Force. For a complete description of "appropriate use," see Air Force Instruction 33-129, Paragraph 2 - Use of Internet Resources by Government Employees.

When posting information to the Web, especially information concerning Air Force operations, programs or activities, every Airman is responsible for his or her own conduct. Airmen are on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and all their actions are subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Airmen, by the nature of the business, are always "on the record" and must always represent the core values of integrity first, service before self and excellence in all they do.

For more information, call Bob Forsythe, 4th Fighter Wing Information Protection chief, at 722-1471, or the 4th FW Public Affairs office at 722-0027.