Personal Use of Social Media: Army Standards & Expectations

Social media is an important part of modern life. It keeps us informed, connected, and allows Soldiers and Families to share their experiences. The Army supports the responsible use of these platforms, but there are rules and expectations to protect individuals, the force, and the Army’s reputation.

Online Conduct & Responsibility

• Personal vs. Official: Personal accounts must clearly be personal. Do not present yourself as a Department of Defense (DoD) spokesperson or suggest official endorsement by using ranks, uniforms, insignia, or symbols in a misleading way.

• Living the Army Values: Soldiers and Family members are responsible for everything they post. Army Values apply online just as they do in person.

• Think, Type, Post: Always communicate with dignity and respect (AR 600-20). Any post that violates the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or misrepresents the Army is prohibited.

Online Misconduct

• Misuse of electronic communication—including harassment, bullying, hazing, discriminatory remarks, stalking, or retaliation—is punishable under Army regulations (AR 600-20, para. 4-19a).

• In short, using social media to inflict harm or undermine respect for others violates Army Values and the UCMJ.

Political Activity

• Permitted (Off Duty/Personal Capacity):

  • “Like,” “follow,” or “friend” political pages or candidates.

  • Share personal opinions on public issues, similar to writing a letter to the editor.

• Prohibited (On Duty or In Uniform):

  • Participating in partisan political activity (interviews, campaigns, rallies).

  • Sharing or reposting partisan content.

  • Making contemptuous remarks against elected officials or government leaders.

These rules are outlined in DoDI 5400.17, DoD Directive 1344.10, and AR 600-20, Appendix B. The Hatch Act (1939) also restricts political activities to ensure the federal workforce remains nonpartisan.

Adverse Incidents: Illness, Injury, or Death

• Never post or share information about a Soldier killed or missing in action until after official DoD release and notification of next of kin (DODI 1300.18).

• Avoid spreading rumors or speculation. If asked about a sensitive report, direct others to pause and wait for official information.

• Media inquiries should always be referred to a Public Affairs professional.

Reporting Misconduct

• Online misconduct can be reported through the chain of command, Family support services, Equal Opportunity advisors, SHARP representatives, the Inspector General, or law enforcement.

• AR 600-20 makes online misconduct a punitive offense, enforceable under the UCMJ.

Private & Family Readiness Group (FRG) Pages

• Soldier and Family Readiness Group (SFRG) pages may be considered official.

• Content must be cleared by the unit’s release authority (AR 360-1).

• Pages cannot exclude members of the parent unit, even if set as private or closed groups.

Endorsements & Ethics

• Soldiers must avoid using their DoD position to endorse, promote, or appear to support non-federal businesses, services, or entities.

• Use of DoD titles, uniforms, or symbols that imply endorsement is not allowed.

• Adding a disclaimer to personal accounts is recommended, e.g.:
  “The views expressed are my own and do not represent the Army or DoD. Reference to commercial products or services does not imply endorsement.”

• Unethical private gain is prohibited. Examples include:

  • Receiving compensation or sponsorships through official accounts.

  • Promoting personal businesses on government-associated platforms.

  • Leveraging official position for personal or third-party benefit.

✅ Bottom Line: Soldiers and Families are encouraged to use social media to stay connected and share their story—but must do so responsibly, ethically, and in alignment with Army Values and the UCMJ.

📖 Reference: U.S. Army Social Media – Personal Use Guidelines