Computer Usage Policy

Computer Usage Policy

Security and Access

• Users must protect their logon ID and password from unauthorized access and report any suspected compromise to ITD.
• Users are responsible for all activity on their logon ID.
• Authorized ITD members or individuals with explicit authorization can access another employee's computer account.

Safeguarding Logon ID and Password

• Users must make every reasonable effort to safeguard their logon ID and password from unauthorized users.
• Examples of prohibited actions include taping logon ID and/or password to the monitor or keyboard.

Data Security

• Users cannot attempt to circumvent data security schemes, identify or exploit security weaknesses, or decrypt secure data.

Privacy and Confidentiality

• Users cannot monitor, read, copy, change, delete, or tamper with another employee's electronic communications, files, or software without express authorization.
• Users cannot use the BSO network to gain unauthorized access to any computer system.

Electronic Communications

• Users cannot forge the source of electronic communications, alter system data used to identify the source of messages, or obscure the origination of communications.

Information Disclosure

• Users cannot disclose or transmit information to unauthorized persons.

Legal Compliance

• Users cannot use their computers in a manner that violates federal, state, or local law or regulation.

System Integrity

• Users cannot knowingly or recklessly interfere with the normal operation of computers, peripherals, or networks.

Equipment and Software Installation

• Users cannot install equipment or software on their BSO computer or the BSO network without first obtaining authorization from ITD.

Social Media/Social Networking Policy

Purpose

• To provide guidelines for Broward Sheriff's Office employees on the use of social media and social networking.

Definitions

• Social Media: Online sources that allow people to communicate, share information, and exchange multimedia files with others.
• Social Networking: Online platforms where users can network, socialize, communicate, and exchange information with others.
• Mobile Social Networking: Social networking using a mobile phone or cellular-based device.
• Blogs: Personal online journals or commentaries that allow visitors to post opinions, responses, or comments.
• Posting: Typing a message, uploading graphics/videos, or any electronic media to an online forum or newsgroup.
• Personal Website: An online site created by an individual for social, entertainment, or business purposes.
• Profile: A self-defined description of a person displayed on a webpage or social networking site.
• Chat Rooms: Online gatherings where users can communicate with each other and exchange information via instant messaging.

Policy

• Employees have the right to participate in social networking/social media sites while off-duty, but must use caution to avoid discrediting themselves or the agency.
• Development of individual departmental networking sites is prohibited unless approved by the Sheriff or designee.
• Employees must not use social media/social networking platforms in violation of BSO's "Standards of Conduct," State or Federal law.
• Employees are prohibited from using social media/social networking platforms while on duty unless supervisory permission is granted for investigative or public information purposes.
• Employees are prohibited from disseminating content inconsistent with the duties, conduct, and responsibilities of a Broward Sheriff's Office employee.
• Employees are prohibited from posting confidential, sensitive, or copyrighted information related to ongoing investigations or operations.
• Employees must exercise good judgment in displaying logos, badges, seals, uniforms, vehicles, equipment, or any item associated with the agency.
• Employees working in undercover operations must not post any form of visual or personal identification as an employee of the agency.
• Employees must conduct themselves professionally while using social media off-duty and not reflect negatively upon the agency or its mission.
• Employees are cautioned that speech on- or off-duty, made pursuant to their official duties, may be subject to disciplinary action if in violation of BSO's "Standards of Conduct" or any other applicable sections of the Sheriff's Policy Manual.