Social media describes internet-based applications which allow individuals to create and exchange content and communicate with others. Examples of social media can include forums, blogs, microblogs (for example X), wikis, podcasts, content communities (for example YouTube, WhatsApp and Flickr), and social networking sites (for example Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn).²⁸⁵

You should follow the principles and standards of good communication when communicating in a professional or personal capacity, irrespective of the medium. You must ensure that your conduct online and through social media does not damage the reputation of, or undermine confidence in, the profession. See sections on Partnership with patients and Working with colleagues.

You should not share identifiable information about patients in an internet chat forum as this would be an improper disclosure. See section on Confidentiality.

You must respect copyright if you link or include images or other material.