Railway Department tightens social media policy to protect operational security

The Railway Department has announced new measures to regulate social media activity among staff members while on duty, responding to growing concerns about the uncontrolled sharing of sensitive railway operations data. Officials have identified instances where employees disclosed operational details online, potentially compromising security protocols and infrastructure integrity.

The policy seeks to establish clear guidelines governing when and how railway personnel may access social media platforms during their work shifts. By limiting such access during operational hours, the department aims to reduce opportunities for inadvertent or deliberate disclosure of confidential information related to train schedules, maintenance operations, security procedures, and other critical infrastructure details.

Railway authorities view the measure as essential to protecting national infrastructure from potential security vulnerabilities. The disclosure of operational information through social media channels could provide harmful actors with valuable intelligence regarding railway systems, capacity limitations, and security arrangements.

The department's initiative reflects broader concerns across government and private sector organisations in Sri Lanka regarding digital security and employee conduct on social platforms. Officials have indicated that the policy will be implemented alongside awareness programmes to educate staff about data protection responsibilities and the risks associated with public information sharing.

The measure is expected to enhance operational security while establishing clearer expectations for professional conduct in the digital age.