POLICE officers should imagine that a moderator is reading any WhatsApp group messages they send between colleagues, to ensure they don\u2019t say anything they\u2019ll later regret.<\/p>\n
This is the advice of South Yorkshire Police Federation, after recommendations have been made to all police forces in England and Wales to ensure a consistent approach of work group messages, following a review by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.<\/p>\n
A case at the Met \u2013 which the IOPC has publicised – found officers \u201c were using the instant messaging application from their personal devices to discuss work related matters including sharing operational information and sensitive documents.\u201d<\/p>\n
Steve said: \u201cWe tell student officers, if you\u2019re going to have a WhatsApp group message, that\u2019s absolutely fine, but just be reminded that at all times you must be professional. If you\u2019re unsure about what you\u2019re writing, just imagine an independent moderator\u2019s reading it at all times, because all it takes is for one person to make a complaint and then it becomes public information.\u201d<\/p>\n
IOPC Deputy Director General for Operations Claire Bassett said:<\/p>\n
\u201cSocial media and instant messaging are a part of all of our lives and it\u2019s important that policing policies and procedures reflect changes in the way we use technology in everyday life. WhatsApp can be a useful tool for officers to message one another about swapping a shift or for communications like sharing information if a child is missing or notifying communities about an increase in thefts.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt the same time, the risks associated with this use need to be managed, so it\u2019s critical to get the balance right. These recommendations will help police forces do this, and it\u2019s been good to see several forces have already set up task forces in response to look at this.\u201d<\/p>\n
To see the recommendations in full, go to: https:\/\/www.policeconduct.gov.uk\/news\/nine-national-recommendations-made-regarding-police-officers\u2019-use-whatsapp-messaging-system<\/p>\n
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