CSU Foursquare

What is Foursquare?

Foursquare is a social media site that uses geolocation: the geographic location of a building or business. Foursquare users log in to the app on their smartphones to check in to various locations they visit; these checkpoints can be shared with users’ friends between multiple social media sites, including Facebook and Twitter. People can also share tips about various locations, which all Foursquare users have access to.

Why should I use Foursquare?

Foursquare is an effective way for CSU organizations, buildings, or departments to establish location, send updates and announcements to people who are nearby or have checked in to your location before, leave helpful tips, or create lists of locations. Foursquare is an opportune network to publicize and build recognition of your CSU program or department while encouraging networking between users.

How do I use Foursquare?

Register online for a Foursquare account here.

To make it easier for people to find your Foursquare page, link it with your CSU Facebook and Twitter handles, or other media apps.

Download the Foursquare app on your mobile phone, and check in at various locations that you visit. Sharing your check-ins on Twitter and Facebook will encourage your friends to visit those locations, as well as promote interaction and networking.

Leave helpful tips on your page. Tips can be common knowledge, or consist of something that few people know about that is relevant to your CSU program or department.

Create lists. To create a list, take a collection of tips or locations that give a unique perspective or new insight to your CSU department.

Share photos of each location. Adding photos to each location can make your Foursquare account a multidimensional network for your department. Users can view photos of the location to get an insider perspective.

Controlling Privacy

Because Foursquare uses geolocation, it is important to monitor and be aware of privacy risks. Here are some tips to controlling your privacy, and staying safe on Foursquare:

  • Don’t check in at home, and avoid setting your current location as your home address.
  • Don’t check in at others’ homes to protect their privacy as well as yours.
  • Don’t check in with or tag people; without consent you are compromising their privacy as well as your own.