Social Networking Sites

The University of New Mexico’s Dean of Students Office recognizes that social networking sites are now a part of our university culture. These websites offer students many opportunities to keep connected with their family, friends, and other social groups-- not only at UNM, but across the world. Occasionally, students will post information that is deemed offensive and/or something that may be seen as illegal, or a violation of UNM Policy. Although the Dean of Students Office does not actively peruse social networking sites to look for potential issues, we will investigate information brought forward that indicates there might be some type of violation. When utilizing these on-line resources, individuals should understand the following as potential risks of internet based communications:

• Information posted online is typically there forever.
• Information posted online is potentially available for everyone to see, such as future employers, university administrators, and parents
• Providing too much personal information online (telephone numbers, addresses, photos, etc.) can be used to cause harm. Examples include: identity theft, online harassment, and stalking
• A good “rule of thumb” is to not post any information that you would’t want your parents, a university administrator, a future employer, or a stalker to see
• Should our office receive information that indicates a UNM student has violated university policy or state law, they may be held accountable for these postings through the legal process or through the Dean of Students judicial process