Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or even Snapchat are the ways many youth communicate with each, and while it may be convenient at times it can also be dangerous as well.

Okotoks RCMP is putting out a gentle reminder as kids are back in school to be aware of what they share or post on social media.

Sgt Sukh Randhawa says the worldwide web is big place anyone if they want to can get information on you.

"You got to be conscious of the fact how much information you're putting out in social media," he says. "You never know who is looking at your account, never know who you're inviting into your friend's circles or giving access to your accounts. There is a lot of personal information about you on social media and you have to guard that."

Social media sharing can lead to online bullying or even identity theft and Randhawa says it's important to not give out too much information about yourself or someone you know online.

"Don't give too much information out is number one. Don't put too many pictures out there, know who you're dealing with on the other side. If you know a friend who you invite to access your account that you trust is fine but be conscious of the fact that you never know who's looking on the other side."

Randhawa says with high school well under way and the opportunities to throw a party may be tempting to put out on social media but with such a proximity to many communities including Calgary, a public social media event is not a good idea.

"Only invite those people that you've dealt with in the past and you know who they are rather than putting an open invitation to anybody and everybody to attend a party. That can get out of hand really quickly. It can cause a lot of problems for the homeowners as well as the police."

Randhawa says if you do run into a social media situation from bullying to unwanted guests at a event contact RCMP right away.

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