What is the Army's guideline on the use of social media?

The guideline that states soldiers must adhere to operational security principles is essential because it promotes the balance between the benefits of social media engagement and the need to protect sensitive information. Operational security (OPSEC) ensures that soldiers do not disclose information that could jeopardize mission success or personal safety. This means being cautious about sharing details regarding locations, activities, or any operational data that could be harmful if it falls into the wrong hands.

The other options do not support the Army's approach to social media. Encouraging soldiers to share all activities can lead to violations of OPSEC. Allowing only authorized personnel to post updates may not cover all service members' responsibilities regarding safety and security, while outright prohibition of social media use would ignore its potential benefits for morale and communication in an age where digital presence is increasingly important.