Volunteers for the 2012 Olympic games in London have been told that they will not be permitted to post updates regarding their roles, where they are based or the athletes and dignitaries to Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms.

The 70,000 volunteers or , “Games makers” have been provided with guidelines regarding their social media activity during the period of the games, which start on 27th July 2012 and end on 12th August.  A spokesman told news channel Reuters that they understood Games Makers would want to share their experiences with friends and family, and that the guidelines had been put in place in the best interests of those involved in the over operation.

Earlier this month the British Olympic association announced that they would be advising British athletes on how to convey themselves on the likes of Twitter during the event.  On this occasion the focus was more on ensuring that athletes use correct grammar and punctuation, whilst making an effort to appear more approachable by adding smiley faces and “lol’s”.

In 2008 we were treated to a similar Social Media blackout giving the heavily enforced ban on Twitter and Facebook in China.