The Australian Psychological Society has published a set of guidelines for psychologists to keep in mind in relation to competent and ethical practice. It is regarding the possibility for issues to arise when using forms of communication such as email and social media:

•    Email communications: All emails that you send to your clients must be encrypted to prevent them from being accessed by unauthorized parties.

 •    Electronic storage of client information: You must store client’s information in a safe place to prevent third parties from accessing them. Records that are stored electronically should be done so on a computer or device without an internet connection to prevent people from hacking them.

•    Use of smartphones and tablets: You should also consider having separate mobile devices for private use and professional use, as many smartphones and tablets automatically default to cloud backup storage systems, which can be ethically problematic if you are storing confidential information.

•    Social media: As a psychologist, you need to comply with all professional expectations provided by relevant guidelines, codes and policies. You should follow the social media policy regulations issued by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.