The United States Marine Corps still has strict rules in place regarding social networking and internet use, even though the Department of Defense has loosened rules about the online content employees can access.

The Marine administrative message 458/09 banned the use of social networking sites on any USMC PC or unclassified computer network, but the USMC is now looking into options to possibly remove the ban. The only use of social networking on the USMC Marine Corps Enterprise Network is allowed if the party receive a waiver.

There is concern that Facebook, MySpace and Twitter cause potential security problems related to information leaking while spyware infects the networks.

"Social media has a place in the Marine Corps, and we intend to use the tools available, said Maj. David Nevers, Commandant Gen. James Conway spokesperson, in an interview with the Marine Corps Times.  "The commandant's first concern, however, is the security of the  Marine Corps' network.  Our interest in promoting the use of social media must not trump our responsibility to manage risks."

Conway has his own Twitter and Facebook accounts, but he hasn't posted any links or communicated with followers.  Furthermore, Sgt. Major Carlton Kent, who is the top enlisted Marine in the USMC, also has unused Twitter and Facebook accounts.

The USMC is still actively engaged in the social media world, with its public affairs department communicating with the public on computers not connected to the  USMC network.  There also has been a large effort to use the internet to recruit new Marines, a trend expected to continue in 2010 and 2011.