By Shahzad Niaz
In an era where social media is ubiquitous, our interactions are increasingly shaped by these platforms. I created my Facebook account more than a decade ago, initially using it sparingly to observe what others were posting. However, after 2021, I started sharing my poetry and literary work with friends, leading to a surge in friend requests. This experience highlighted the diverse nature of online interactions—some enriching and others potentially harmful. In this article, I have tried to explore the pros and cons of social media, along with strategies to protect ourselves from unethical or scamming activities. Social media platforms are powerful tools for connectivity, enabling us to interact with people worldwide. They allow us to maintain relationships with family and friends, regardless of geographical barriers. For individuals like me who share literary interests, these platforms offer opportunities to connect with like-minded people, fostering enriching exchanges and collaborations.
For artists, writers, and creators, social media serves as a stage to showcase their work. Sharing my poetry has allowed me to gain visibility and receive feedback, which is invaluable for personal growth with reference to my literary activities. Social media democratizes art, giving creators the chance to reach audiences they might never have accessed otherwise. Social media is also a powerful tool for spreading information quickly and raising awareness about various issues. From social justice movements to health campaigns, platforms like Facebook and ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter) have played pivotal roles in mobilizing communities and driving change. This access to information can empower users to make informed decisions and engage in meaningful discourse. Furthermore, social media enables the formation of communities around shared interests. Whether it’s a group dedicated to literature, a hobby, or a social cause, these communities provide a sense of belonging and support. They allow members to share resources, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects.
However, there are significant challenges associated with social media. One of the most pressing is maintaining privacy. Sharing personal information can lead to breaches and data misuse. Users must be vigilant about the information they post and who can access it, as cybercriminals often exploit these details for malicious purposes. The rise of online scams is another concern. During my time on Facebook, I encountered various individuals with dubious intentions, including people portraying financial distress to solicit money, fake profiles requesting donations, and scams involving crypto trading. Recognizing and avoiding these scams is crucial for protecting oneself. Another serious issue is the “honey trap” tactic, where individuals pose as attractive personas to lure unsuspecting users into meetings. These encounters can lead to ransom demands, extortion, and even life-threatening situations. Many such cases have been reported by the media in recent past, highlighting the need for extreme caution when interacting with strangers online.
Negative interactions, such as cyberbullying and harassment, are also prevalent on social media. These experiences can have severe psychological impacts, affecting users’ mental health and well-being. It’s essential to create a supportive online environment and utilize platform tools to report and block harassers. Additionally, social media can be addictive, consuming excessive amounts of time and reducing productivity. The constant stream of notifications can lead to compulsive behavior, impacting both personal and professional life. Managing screen time and setting boundaries are vital for maintaining a healthy balance. To protect yourself on social media, it’s important to verify connections by checking mutual friends and reviewing profiles to ensure authenticity. Regularly updating and managing privacy settings is crucial for controlling who sees your information. Customize settings to limit the visibility of personal details and be selective about the information you share publicly. Limit the amount of personal information shared online and be mindful of oversharing.
Avoid posting sensitive details like your address or financial information, which could be exploited by cybercriminals. Be aware of common red flags associated with scams. These include unsolicited messages requesting money, pressure for quick decisions, and offers that seem too good to be true. Trust your instincts and exercise caution when interacting with unknown contacts. Staying informed about the latest scams and tactics used by cybercriminals is vital. Follow trusted sources for updates on cybersecurity and learn from others’ experiences to recognize potential threats. Utilize platform features to report suspicious behavior and block unwanted contacts. Reporting helps platforms take action against scammers, creating a safer online environment for everyone. Social media platforms are powerful tools that offer numerous benefits, from connectivity and creativity to information and community building. However, they also pose significant risks, including privacy concerns, scams, and cyberbullying. By understanding these challenges and implementing proactive measures, we can enjoy the positive aspects of social media while safeguarding ourselves against potential dangers. As users, it’s our responsibility to navigate these platforms wisely, ensuring a safe and enriching online experience.
(The writer, is a law graduate with keen interest in national and international affairs, can be reached at news@metro-morning.com)
