Social Media and Digital Conduct Policy

Applies to: All Students, Faculty Members, Staff, and Administrators
(On-Campus and Off-Campus)
Institution: Ganga Global Institute of Management Studies (GGIMS), Begusarai, Bihar

1. Introduction and Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for the responsible, ethical, and professional use of social media and digital platforms by all members of Ganga Global Institute of Management Studies (GGIMS), Begusarai, including students, faculty, staff, and administrators, whether on or off campus.

The primary objectives of this policy are to:

·         Protect the reputation, credibility, and brand identity of GGIMS

·         Safeguard confidential, sensitive, and proprietary institutional information

·         Promote professionalism, respect, and integrity in all digital interactions

·         Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and institutional value

2. General Principles of Conduct

This policy applies to all individuals using social media or digital communication tools including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, blogs, forums, messaging platforms, and other digital media—when such use is connected to or references:

·         Ganga Global Institute of Management Studies (GGIMS)

·         Its management, faculty, staff, students, programs, or activities

This applies to official institutional accounts as well as personal accounts when representing, referencing, or associating with GGIMS.

2.1 Transparency and Identity

·         Social media should be used to promote the educational mission, achievements, initiatives, and positive image of GGIMS.

·         Maintain professionalism, accuracy, and courtesy in all digital communications.

·         Anonymous posting related to institutional matters is discouraged to ensure accountability.

·         Opinions expressed on personal accounts must be clearly stated as personal views and not official views of GGIMS.

2.2 Respect and Professionalism

·         Treat all members of the institution and the public with dignity and respect.

·         Do not post content that is discriminatory, abusive, harassing, threatening, defamatory, or offensive.

·         Avoid online arguments, trolling, cyberbullying, or inflammatory discussions involving institutional matters.

3. Prohibition of Unauthorized Communication and Content

The following actions are strictly prohibited without prior written approval from the Management of Ganga Global Institute of Management Studies, Begusarai:

3.1 Confidentiality and Privacy Violations

Sharing, publishing, or discussing any non-public or sensitive information, including but not limited to:

·         Internal administrative, academic, or financial records

·         Unreleased curricula, academic policies, research data, or strategic decisions

·         Ongoing disciplinary actions, investigations, or legal proceedings

·         Personal data of students, faculty, or staff (academic performance, health information, contact details, images, or videos), in accordance with applicable privacy laws

3.2 Defamatory or Disparaging Content

·         Posting, sharing, or endorsing content that is false, misleading, defamatory, or maliciously critical of:

o    GGIMS

o    Its management, leadership, faculty, staff, or students

o    Its academic quality, governance, or reputation

·         Creating pages, groups, or accounts using the institution’s name, logo, or identity in a misleading, unauthorized, or disparaging manner.

3.3 Accuracy and Responsibility

·         Verify information before sharing to prevent misinformation or rumors.

·         Do not impersonate institutional authorities, spokespersons, or official representatives unless formally authorized.

·         Clearly distinguish between official communications and personal opinions.

3.4 Unauthorized Use of Intellectual Property

·         Respect copyright and intellectual property rights at all times.

·         Unauthorized use of GGIMS logos, seals, branding material, photographs, videos, documents, or official content for personal use or criticism is prohibited.

·         Impersonation of official institutional channels or representatives is strictly forbidden.

4. Disciplinary Actions and Penalties

Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, which may include termination of employment, student expulsion, and/or legal proceedings, depending on the severity of the violation.

Penalties will be determined based on:

·         Nature of content

·         Platform reach and engagement

·         Actual or potential damage to the institution

Levels of Damage and Penalties

Level 1 – Minor / Low Impact

·         Limited reach (below 100 views/shares)

·         Content removed promptly

·         Minimal or reversible harm

Faculty/Staff:

·         Verbal warning documented in personnel records

·         Mandatory institutional image-restoration activities

Students:

·         Formal written warning (with parental intimation where applicable)

·         Mandatory digital ethics counseling and certification

Level 2 – Moderate Impact

·         Reach between 100–1,000 views/shares

·         Measurable impact on morale, partnerships, or admissions

Faculty/Staff:

·         Written reprimand in personnel file

·         Suspension or pay deduction (1–3 days)

·         Loss of privileges or internal benefits

Students:

·         Suspension for 1–2 weeks (or equivalent)

·         Disqualification from student leadership roles, scholarships, or awards

Level 3 – Severe / High Impact

·         Viral content (over 1,000 views/shares)

·         Significant reputational, legal, or financial damage

·         Disclosure of confidential or legally protected information

Faculty/Staff:

·         Immediate termination of employment

·         Legal action, including claims for damages or injunctions

Students:

·         Immediate expulsion from the institution

·         Revocation of degrees/certificates (subject to due process)

·         Legal action as applicable

The Management of GGIMS reserves the right to assess the level of damage and impose penalties following due inquiry and institutional procedures.

5. Official Social Media Accounts

·         Only authorized personnel may create, operate, or manage official GGIMS social media accounts.

·         Official accounts must reflect professionalism, accuracy, transparency, and institutional values.

·         Violations may lead to suspension of digital access, disciplinary action, or other penalties.

·         Any illegal activity will be reported to appropriate authorities.

6. Digital Security

·         Use strong passwords and appropriate security measures for institutional accounts.

·         Immediately report security breaches, hacking incidents, or suspicious activity to the IT Department or designated authority.

7. Policy Review and Amendments

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as required to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, and institutional needs. All members of Ganga Global Institute of Management Studies, Begusarai are expected to stay informed and seek clarification whenever in doubt regarding appropriate online conduct.