NCJ Number
231560
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 79 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2010 Pages: 1-8
Date Published
July 2010
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article provides guidance for law enforcement public information officers (PIOs) regarding ways to use modern digital technology to provide law enforcement information to the public and other agencies.
Abstract
One digital communication option is called Real Simple Syndication (RSS). Subscribers to RSS feeds automatically receive notification when a Web site they follow is updated; they also choose the type of content to which they want to be alerted. PIOs can use this tool to communicate information quickly and fairly to all news outlets in the community. Also, PIOs responsible for watching daily news clips will find RSS feeds valuable. Another relatively new Internet phenomenon is Twitter. Users, either an individual or an organization, can create a profile and provide instant updates on daily activities, breaking news, and even mundane details. During times of crisis communication, PIOs can use Twitter; instead of preparing, editing, and distributing a full news release, PIOs can use Twitter to put the basic facts into a single, short message. PIOs can continue to provide information in a timely manner through regular updates. Similar to Twitter, another social networking Web site called Nixle targets municipal agencies. In June 2008, Nixle became the first public networking site to partner with the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS). Because of this relationship, Nixle can house its servers in NLETS' secure facilities, resulting in an enhanced level of security and reliability for municipal agencies. Another Internet site, YouTube, is the most prolific personal media site available. Many law enforcement agencies use it to publish recruiting videos and news conferences. Agencies can have a department profile and create and post videos for free. Another Web site, Facebook, enables departments to provide information, videos, news updates, and event information to other users who choose to become a "friend." 9 notes