http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009...ng-ban-marines
The US marine corps have become the latest branch of the American military to ban the use of social networking sites, after officials expressed concern about potential security risks.
An order sent out to marines yesterday informed them that they could no longer use sites including Facebook, MySpace and Twitter in case enemy groups used the information they contained to their advantage.
"These internet sites in general are a proven haven for malicious actors and content, and are particularly high risk due to information exposure, user-generated content and targeting by adversaries," said the order. "The very nature of social networking sites creates a larger attack and exploitation window."
Coming just days after US deputy defence secretary William Lynn ordered a review of the military's social networking policies, the move is being seen by some as a signal that the Pentagon could enact a blanket ban on social networks across the entire military system.
Lynn's review, which is due to be completed by the end of August, plans to weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of allowing members of the army, navy and air force to use social media.
Officials recognise that thousands of active personnel use sites like Facebook to keep in touch with friends and family at home
