As social media becomes increasingly present in the
workplace, employees and employers alike must
educate themselves on the implications of social
media use both in the workplace and outside of
the workplace.
The line that divides an individual’s private life is blurred
by society’s overwhelming use of social media. Platforms
such as Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter serve
as revolutionary ways to communicate ideas, thoughts
and files; however, users should remain conscious of the
implications of posting certain content on their own time
and during work hours.
There are countless horror stories of employees posting
content on social media forums on their own time and on
their private accounts, only to discover that their employer
has gained access to the content in a direct or indirect
manner and is less than impressed with the conduct of their
employee. These stories should serve as cautionary tales to
those who are active on social media in their personal capacity
as well as through employment.
LEGAL
The Perils of Social Media
When private becomes public
By Keith A. Senden, Fillmore Riley LLP
LIGHTSPRING / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
PILING CANADA 67