What governs the social media activities of officers and civilian employees?

The correct answer highlights that all applicable city policies and laws govern the social media activities of officers and civilian employees. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals operating in these roles are aware of the broader context in which they function.

City policies provide a framework that reflects the organization's values and expectations for online conduct, especially when public-facing. Federal laws add an additional layer of compliance and accountability, addressing issues such as privacy, harassment, and free speech, which can be particularly complex in the digital space. By integrating both city and federal regulations, the governing standards promote responsible and ethical social media use, protecting the integrity of the individuals and the organization they represent.

In contrast, the other options suggest a more limited scope of governance. Relying solely on department policies could lead to inconsistencies or gaps in regulation. Mentioning only city regulations and federal laws neglects the importance of department-specific guidelines that tailor compliance to the unique context of law enforcement or public service work. The idea that social media activities are unregulated overlooks the reality that interactions in digital spaces can have significant professional repercussions and subject individuals to scrutiny or misconduct allegations. Thus, the interrogation of such activities under established laws and policies reinforces the importance of accountability and ethical behavior in the workplace.