The Internet and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
What LGBT Service Members Need to Know about Being Online
The internet is NOT private!
Any information posted online regarding sexual orientation, sexual acts, partners or other behavior in violation of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" or the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) can be used to discharge a service member.
Click here to view this fact sheet in PDF format.
Profiles on Myspace, Friendster, Gay.com, Facebook, Match.com, Tangowire and any other site where others can view your personal information can also be used to "out" you to the military.
The Do's and Don'ts of Online Profiles and Chat Rooms
The safest course of action for service members while online is not to make any statements regarding your sexual orientation. However, if you choose to identify your sexual orientation in your online profile or in a chat room, here are some basic rules to help you decrease your chances of facing investigation and discharge:
- DO use a pseudonym or screen name to avoid disclosing your identity;
- DO make your webpage private or restrict access to it;
- DO NOT choose an e-mail handle or screen name that has any sexual connotations or lesbian or gay overtones;
- DO NOT mention the fact that you are in the military in your personal profile, in chat rooms or other online forums;
- DO NOT show photographs – especially not in uniform – or descriptions of tattoos or other identifying information;
- DO NOT tell friends in the military that you have an online profile;
- DO NOT submit your profile to be a "featured member;"
- DO NOT use online video-chat features;
- DO NOT use a military e-mail address for your profile, and
- DO NOT use a military computer to access online personal ads or similar websites.
Any service member who has questions about the risks with internet communication should contact SLDN by either calling (202.328.3244, ext. 100) or emailing (.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)) to schedule an appointment with one of our legal staff.
