Social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter are becoming an increasingly useful way to communicate with members of the public, care providers and doctors. Prof Anas Younes explains that although many oncologists are reluctant to embrace this technology, there are benefits that may not have been considered and it is easier to use and less time consuming than many people think. There is guidance available from professional bodies such as the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians. These guidelines have been designed to help clinicians use social media and emphasises the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality. Prof Younes concludes by discussing the potential role of social media in attracting patients to enrol in clinical trials.