An analysis of the role of social networks in modern society is offered. Their role in the political mobilization of the population is illustrated by election campaign of Barack Obama, "the twitter revolution" of 2009 in Kishinev and Tehran, the Russian protest movement, including organized rally on Bolotnaya square. A pilot study made by the author is presented in respect to "community protests" in Moscow. Typology of participants in protest groups on social networks is related to their practices of using social platforms and activity in real life.