Social Media Etiquette Case Study: Screenshotting Private Content Without Permission

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 Screenshotting Private Content Without Permission

Social media etiquette basically means using social platforms in a respectful, responsible, and thoughtful way. It’s about understanding that what you share and how you interact online affects real people. It includes respecting privacy, thinking before posting or reposting something, and being aware of how your digital actions can impact someone’s personal or professional life.


Case Example: Screenshotting a Private Instagram Story

For my case study, I’m analyzing a situation where someone’s private content was shared without their permission.

A college student named Mia posted a funny, slightly embarrassing photo to her Instagram Close Friends story. It was meant only for a small group. One of her “friends” named Ethan screenshotted it and sent it to a group chat with people she didn’t select. Eventually, someone reposted it publicly on Twitter/X.

Even though Mia didn’t post anything inappropriate, she felt embarrassed and betrayed because it was private content that she trusted people not to share.

This violates social media etiquette because it breaks trust, ignores privacy boundaries, and goes against the idea that you should never repost someone’s content without their consent.

 How the Problem Could Have Been Avoided 


Ethan respected the privacy expectations that come with “Close Friends” stories.

  • He asked permission before screenshotting or sharing anything.

  • He understood the etiquette rule of not assuming everything you see online is yours to spread.

  • Mia could have also been mindful about who she adds to her Close Friends list, keeping it limited to truly trusted people.

Steps the Individual Could Take to Fix the Situation

To try to repair the situation, Mia could:

  • Directly talk to the people involved and tell them how the sharing made her feel.

  • Ask the person who posted it on Twitter/X to remove it immediately.

  • Adjust her privacy settings and remove anyone she doesn’t trust.

  • Make a general post reminding people that her private stories are meant to stay private.

  • Report the reposted content if it violates platform guidelines.

Alternative Actions That Could Have Been Taken Instead

Ethan could have:


  • Just enjoyed the post without sharing it.

  • Asked “hey, is it ok if I show this to someone else?”

  • Sent Mia a supportive or funny reaction instead of spreading the image.

  • Understood that Close Friends equals not for public distribution.

What I Would Do if I Were in the Same Situation

If I were in Mia’s shoes, I’d probably feel embarrassed and upset too. I would calmly confront the person who shared the screenshot and explain that Close Friends posts are private for a reason. I’d also adjust my follower list and be stricter about who I trust. If something of mine got posted publicly, I’d request for it to be taken down and report it if needed.

If it happened to a friend, I would:

  • Support them

  • Help them take the steps to get the post removed

  • Remind others not to spread it further

  • Encourage them to protect their privacy settings more in the future

Presentation Link: 


Comments

  1. Anna RothDecember 4, 2025 at 7:33 PM

    Hi Vanna!
    I agree that it is important for individuals to respect being put on their friends' private or close-friends stories. I really like how you chose a topic that so many people can relate or connect to, as we all use social media platforms. It is best that we all understand the correct ways to engage with each other's post positively, rather than in negative ways. I agree that it is best to adjust these close friends lists and choose people you trust the most. Social media can be a scary place, especially if people are using it incorrectly. Great job!

    ReplyDelete

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