The British Insurance Brokers' Association (BIBA) has produced legal guidance to help brokers manage potential risks surrounding the use of social media.
Following increased interest from members about social media, BIBA appointed law firm Beachcroft LLP has produced legal documents including a guidance note on managing social media, a template social media policy and a template disclaimer for use on Linked In groups.
Emma Bate, partner at Beachcroft, said: "BIBA Members need to be aware of the legal and commercial risks of using these sites, as do their employees.
"The speed and simplicity of social media means it is all too easy for staff to post something inappropriate or unlawful. In particular, as brokers are FSA regulated, they must take reasonable steps ensure that all communications, including tweets or posts on social media websites, are "clear fair and not misleading" and, if they are a financial promotion, should be signed off in the usual way".
The documents can be downloaded by members from the BIBA website.