UNO Statement on Social Media Safety

Recently, there has been much discussion in the local and national media on a new social media application called Yik Yak. Due to its anonymous nature, the posts on Yik Yak are viewed as a safe way for user to express their thoughts. However, anonymity does not equal safety. It is important for users of Yik Yak and other social media platforms to be aware of their personal safety when participating in conversations.

The anonymous features of Yik Yak, in particular, can be used to bully others, make threats, or divulge personal information. One student on the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus was recently arrested for making threatening statements using the app.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha takes the safety of our community seriously. To that end, we remind students, faculty, and staff that in addition to keeping your personal information safe online, there can be disciplinary and legal consequences for threatening the personal safety or property of others.

As always, if you are concerned about a threat made online or elsewhere please contact UNO Campus Security at 402.554.2911 or through the U-Tip line by texting to 50911. Begin the body text of the message with “UNO911” and then include your message.

For additional campus safety resources, please visit the Student Safety website.