SFO Unacceptable Behaviour Policy and Social Media Policy
These policies set out what we consider abusive or unreasonable behaviour when communicating with the SFO and how we moderate content on social media.
Applies to England, Northern Ireland and Wales
Documents
Details
Unacceptable Behaviour Policy
When you contact us, we know that the issues raised can be frustrating or distressing for you. To help us understand and deal with your issue, please be polite to our staff, they deserve to be treated with good manners, and respect. All our staff have the right not to be subjected to abusive or unreasonable behaviour.
Abusive behaviour includes but is not limited to behaviour that:
- is violent, aggressive or makes threats of physical violence;
- uses offensive language, including racist, sexist or homophobic language or any other discriminatory language related to a diversity/protected characteristic;
- includes any other form of discrimination.
Examples of unreasonable behaviour include, but are not limited to:
- refusing to cooperate or clarify an issue, despite our offers of help;
- making excessive communication with the SFO and expecting immediate responses;
- making unjustified complaints against our people;
- repeatedly pursuing complaints which have already been answered;
- a deliberate attempt to disrupt the work of the SFO that may cause an unnecessary diversion of resources.
We will explain what we see as unacceptable and ask that person to change their behaviour, communication and/or language. If it continues, we may:
- stop communicating directly with that person, or restrict communication on specific matters;
- with that person’s consent, communicate with them through a representative or third party such as a relative, friend or community advocate.
Social Media Policy
The Serious Fraud Office communication team manages the @UKSFO X (formerly Twitter) and Serious Fraud Office (UK) LinkedIn accounts.
Our social media platforms serve as essential communication tools that enable us to:
- engage with the public;
- share important case updates, including charging decisions, jury verdicts and the opening of investigations;
- publish news stories and press releases;
- provide alerts about new publications and speeches.
By connecting with us online, you can stay informed about our work to combat serious fraud, bribery and corruption.
Our social media accounts are managed by real people who strive to be helpful and understanding. To ensure a positive and constructive online environment, we have established the following guidelines.
By following and engaging with our social media channels, you agree to abide by these guidelines. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a positive and respectful online community.
Content Guidelines
We encourage meaningful engagement and interaction from our followers. You are welcome to ask questions, provide feedback, and share your views on relevant topics. However, we ask that you are respectful at all times.
We reserve the right to take action by removing, blocking or moderating content that is deemed inappropriate, offensive, or in violation of our guidelines. This includes but is not limited to:
- abusive or harassing language or behaviour;
- sexist, racist, homophobic or other discriminatory language, spam and advertisements;
- false or misleading information;
- personal or confidential information;
- content that may be in contempt of court;
- defamatory or libellous content;
- content that violates any other law or encourages unlawful behaviour.
Moderation and Enforcement
The SFO reserves the right to moderate, edit, or remove any content that violates our social media policy. Repeat offenders may be subject to further action, including being blocked from accessing our social media channels.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Users are reminded to refrain from sharing confidential or sensitive information on our social media channels. Protecting the privacy of individuals and maintaining the confidentiality of ongoing investigations are our top priority.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Users are expected to comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and social media platform policies when interacting on our channels. This includes respecting copyright, trademark, and intellectual property rights.
Responding to users
We strive to respond to all enquiries in our social media inboxes. Whenever possible, we aim to assist users directly or direct them to the appropriate individuals or departments.
Please note: To report instances of suspected serious fraud, bribery and corruption, you must use our secure reporting form.
Anyone who believes that they have been a victim of fraud should contact their local police force or Action Fraud.
This social media policy is subject to periodic review and may be updated as needed to reflect changes in social media practices and platform policies.