Use of social network websites in investigations | Solutional Webdesign Antwerpen

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The main entity in this text is the utilization of social media^[1] by law enforcement and other entities for investigation purposes. Social media investigation refers to the process of collecting and analyzing information from social media platforms for investigative purposes. It’s a practice widely adopted by police agencies, school administrations, and legal experts, among others. The use of social media in investigations can involve various strategies, including monitoring public posts, using software programs for surveillance, and employing tactics like ‘Ghosting’. It aids in identifying suspects, gathering evidence, finding missing persons, and enforcing policies. The impact of social media on investigations is wide-ranging, influencing legal and criminal investigations, disciplinary actions, and global legal cases. The process can lead to legal consequences, including fines, arrests, and expulsions, based on the nature of misuse. However, it also brings about legal challenges and privacy^[2] concerns.

Terms definitions

1. ↑ social media. Social media is a broad term encompassing a variety of digital tools and platforms that facilitate the sharing of information and the creation of virtual communities. Emerging from early systems like PLATO and ARPANET, it has evolved into modern platforms like Facebook and Twitter. These platforms offer unique features that differentiate them from traditional media, including the ability for users to generate content and engage in dialogic communication. They cater to over 100 million users globally and offer different forms of services, such as messaging apps and collaborative content creation platforms. The use of social media has far-reaching impacts on individuals, society, and businesses, influencing everything from marketing practices to political processes. However, it's also associated with ethical concerns, such as the spread of misinformation and potential addiction.

2. ↑ privacy. Privacy is a fundamental concept that has evolved throughout history and continues to shape our societal discourse. Historically, it stemmed from philosophical debates, with figures like Aristotle and John Locke laying the groundwork. Privacy also entwines with legal and ethical issues, as seen in landmark Supreme Court cases and revelations like those from Edward Snowden. Technological advancements have both challenged and enhanced privacy, introducing new threats and protective measures. Globally, privacy standards vary, with different countries and international organizations setting their guidelines. In today's digital age, privacy faces new challenges and considerations, such as social media use, selfie culture, and location-based services. This concept encompasses an individual's right to keep their personal information secret and free from unsanctioned intrusion.

Use of social network websites in investigations (Wikipedia)

This article needs to be updated. Please help update this to reflect recent events or newly available information. (January 2020)

Social network services are increasingly being used in legal and criminal investigations. Information posted on sites such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook has been used by police and university officials to prosecute users of said sites. In some situations, content posted on Myspace has been used in court to determine an appropriate sentence based on a defendant's attitude.

The U.S. DOT National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has made federal grants available to states to train law enforcement officers to use social media sites to identify events that may result in impaired driving or consumption by minors. As of 2012, Michigan spent over $4.5 million through this program, and has trained over 100 local police officers to use social media sites to identify and target events. In more recent years, a majority of police departments have some sort of social media-based strategy in place.

Social media can be used as an investigative tool to obtain probable cause for a search warrant. Agencies can surveil social media sites via software programs, such as X1 Social Discovery, MediaSonar, and Geofeedia.

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