You know that the police are looking at social media when they are investigating cases. What you may not know is whether they are allowed to do this with or without your consent or a warrant. So, here is what you should know:
• Content posted on public sites and accounts are considered evidence “in plain view” because anyone who has Internet access and access to sites like Facebook can see it. There are no viewing restrictions so the police are free to scour this without a warrant.
• When content is posted on a private account, like a private Facebook account that is only viewable to the user and his or her Facebook friends, then the police need a search warrant to gain viewing access.
Just like it is advisable to use discretion when posting content on social media because a person is weary about employers seeing it, it is advisable to use discretion so that it never lands you in legal trouble with the law. Social media has aided the police in many cases, do not let that be the case for you.