Dear Members,
As educators, we understand the power of our words, especially when shared online. Whether we’re advocating for our students, speaking up about public issues, or simply sharing a moment from our day, the digital world can amplify our voices. But it also carries risks.
We’ve compiled several resources to help protect your privacy and prevent unwanted exposure or harassment.
Protecting Your Digital Footprint
Your digital footprint, what you post, like, and share, can be tracked and misused by individuals with harmful intentions. Some may attempt to access and share personal information, a tactic known as doxxing, which can lead to serious harassment.
Even well-intentioned posts can be misinterpreted and bring unwanted scrutiny to you or your school community. That’s why we urge you to take a few moments to review your social media settings and consider what personal details are publicly visible.
Here are step-by-step privacy guides for common platforms:
Facebook: How to Make Facebook Private
LinkedIn: Adjusting Privacy Settings
Instagram: Ultimate Guide to Privacy Settings
Twitter/X: Good Practices
Bluesky: Making Your Profile Private
Threads: Privacy Management Guide
TikTok: Control Your Data
Additional Resources on Online Harassment and Doxxing
PEN America Online Harassment Field Manual
DHS: Resources for Individuals on the Threat of Doxing
ACLU: Steps to Defend Against Online Doxxing
We’ve also attached additional tips for staying safe on social media and in public spaces such as protests.
What You Post Can Be Used Against You
The Florida Education Association (FEA) legal department reminds all educators that your First Amendment rights are not absolute when it comes to private social media use. Teachers have faced disciplinary action for posts made on private accounts, even when no students or parents were directly involved.
Key tips to protect yourself:
Speak as a citizen on matters of public concern, not as a representative of your school.
Avoid using school-provided devices for personal activity, and keep clear boundaries between work and personal communications.
Be mindful of tone and language. Offensive or disruptive posts, even outside school hours, can lead to discipline.
Use strict privacy settings and only connect with people you truly trust.
We also recommend reviewing FEA’s 10-Minute Meeting on Social Media Guidance. Please take a few minutes to read it and consider sharing it with your colleagues.
Final Thoughts
Your voice matters, and staying safe ensures you can continue using it to support your students, your profession, and your community.
If you have questions or need support, please don’t hesitate to contact us at orangecta@gmail.com.
In Solidarity,
OCCTA
