The Internet, Social Media, and Electronic Communication

Regular use of the Internet and electronic communications is a way of life for most people, as technology makes it easier to communicate with coworkers, clients, family, and friends. The near constant availability of e-mail, social and professional networking web sites, smartphones, and other tools has blurred the line between work and home to the point where our online activities at home may have an impact on our companies and employment. Most employers encourage staff to use the Internet and other electronic communication tools for business purposes, and some employers also permit a certain level of personal use in the workplace as well. For this reason, it's important to be familiar with your company's policy on Internet use and electronic communications. This course provides background information to be considered in light of your own company's policies. You will learn about some generally accepted best practices for protecting your own and your company's best interests while using e-mail, instant messaging, text messaging, as well as other Internet technologies such as social networking sites and blogs. This course was developed with subject matter support provided by Davenport Lyons. Please note, however, that the course materials and content are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice and may or may not reflect the most current legal developments. Nothing herein, or in the course materials, shall be construed as professional advice as to any particular situation or constitute a legal opinion with respect to compliance with legal statutes or statutory instruments. Transmission of the information is not intended to create, and receipt does not constitute, a solicitor-client relationship. Readers should not act upon this information without seeking independent legal advice.

• Recognize activities that expose individuals and their companies to potential liability as the result of misuse of electronic communications media
• Identify general best practices for using the Internet in a manner that minimizes or avoids the risks and liabilities associated with its use
• Recognize common practices related to sending and receiving e-mail, IM, and text messages that do not reflect best practices
• Recognize best practices for avoiding liabilities associated with using social networking sites