I spoke to, and emailed with, Centcom spokesman Capt. Karns again yesterday who stressed that the computers service-members used are only supposed to be used for work-purposes:
Certain sites are blocked if access is not required to perform the individuals official duties. Components may be more strict if they deem it appropriate.[Emphasis added]
He added that GIs are allowed to appeal: "If they need access to one of these sites [being blocked], and the request is deemed legitimate, then they’ll shoot the request up the chain of command and probably get access." I asked Karns what's the basis for judging which sites are "appropriate." He responded, "If it’s tied in to be able to have a greater understand of world events and it’s a legitimate news sources than chances are service-members will have a chance of seeing it."
Click below for Capt. Karns' latest email, in full.
Mr Umansky:
The policy governing in-theater computer resources/Internet falls under a CENTCOM headquarters level directive. Each component is supposed to ensure that use of the computer and Internet is government related and required for the accomplishment of official Department of Defense duties. Certain sites are blocked if access is not required to perform the individuals official duties. Components may be more strict if they deem it appropriate.
As I explained on the phone, if an individual feels they require a blocked site for the accomplishment of duties, then access can be gained if the communications experts and commander feel it is required.
Very Respectfully,
Capt Chris Karns
Media Officer
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