Keeping
in mind the current threat scenario in cyberspace, the Union home
ministry has instructed its employees to use social media platforms
judiciously even while making posts in their personal capacity, and use
e-mail accounts connected to servers located in India, for official work
involving transmission of public records.
The
internal circular, issued by a joint secretary-level officer of the
home ministry, states that while employees are free to post responses in
their personal capacity, while doing so, they must clearly identify
themselves and desist from divulging any confidential information.
Besides, the views of officials posting on social media should not be
seen to represent "official view" unless they are so authorized.
Also
drawing attention to the fact that the servers of many popular social
media platforms as well as email services are located outside India, the
home ministry has instructed its staff to use an e-mail identity
connected to a server located in India for any official work involving
transmission of public records. "For this purpose, they may preferably
take service of the National Informatics Centre (NIC)," suggests the
circular dated December 5.
The
circular recalled how social media is increasingly being used in
government for public engagements, for disseminating information, policy
making, recruitment, generating awareness, education, etc. "Most of the
social media platforms are based outside India and are not governed by
Indian laws. It is very important to ensure that Public Records Act,
1993, and other applicable laws are complied with and adequate
provisions for security are in place in view of current threat scenario
in cyber space," it says.
Source : The Times of India
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