Can social media accounts be monitored to identify a user’s whereabouts?
In Alaska, it is possible for social media accounts to be monitored to identify a user’s whereabouts. In the state, the Alaska Electronic Monitoring Protection Act prohibits collection of location information from electronic devices including social media accounts, unless it is provided voluntarily by the user or obtained with the user’s consent. The state laws regulate employers on the necessity and appropriateness of monitoring employees’ social media accounts. If an employer decides to do so they must provide written notice to the employee before monitoring the social media account. Additionally, while it is legal for employers to monitor and track the location of employees during work hours, the state laws require that employers provide employees with notice about the monitoring and tracking policies. Employers that don’t do this can face legal ramifications. For individuals who are not employed, it is important to be aware of the privacy settings and permissions granted to a social media platform. Different platforms have different policies regarding the extent and type of data they collect from users including location data. Individuals must consider these policies and opt to change the permissions granted if they don’t want the platform to monitor their location.
Related FAQs
Are there legal repercussions for taking screenshots of another person’s profile on social media?Are there laws that prohibit employers from requesting access to employees’ profiles on social media?
What are the consequences of invading someone’s privacy on social media?
Are there legal repercussions for sharing confidential information with non-employees on social media?
What are the legal repercussions for posting threatening or harassing content on social media?
Are there legal repercussions for ignoring a cyberbully on social media?
Are there legal repercussions for posting false or misleading information about a person on social media?
Is it legal to post trade secrets or other confidential information on social media?
Are there legal repercussions for posting deceptive or misleading content on social media?
Are there legal repercussions for posting confidential documents or images on social media?
Related Blog Posts
How Employers Should Monitor Social Media Posts to Comply with the Law - July 31, 2023Navigating Social Media Laws to Protect Your Privacy - August 7, 2023
Keeping Your Digital Footprint Private: Social Media Law Explained - August 14, 2023
The Most Common Social Media Laws in the UK - August 21, 2023
How to Find Out if a Law Exists to Govern Your Social Media Use - August 28, 2023