# Urologists and social media: pitfalls and perils and what to think about before hitting ‘send’

## TL;DR

This paper highlights the risks urologists face when using social media, including legal and professional consequences, based on real-life examples.

## Contribution

The paper provides a review of guidelines and case studies to raise awareness of social media risks specific to urologists.

## Key findings

- Urologists risk disciplinary action and legal consequences from social media use.
- Recent case studies show even private social media can lead to criminal investigations.
- Most urologists follow ethical guidelines, but awareness of risks is crucial.

## Abstract

To summarise current guidelines from professional bodies relevant to urologists on social media, and to discusses a range of risks associated with social media use. These include the risk of a fitness to practise investigation, breaking the law, loss of employment, and personal risk in the form of harassment and doxxing.

Review of guidelines and recommendations published by professional bodies revelant to urologists and review of relevant case examples in the medical profession and other relevant professions.

This article finds whereas most doctors will be aware of the risks of posting on public social media platforms, the recent case studies in medical and other contexts have highlighted the risks of disciplinary action from regulators and even criminal investigation in the use of private social media.

Although the majority of urologists are unlikely to violate ethical and good medical practice principles in their use of social media, this article serves as a reminder of the potential consequences based on real‐life case examples.