Nowadays, many people may say phrases like “Facebook me later!” or “Hey, did you see that picture on Tumblr?”
Although many individuals enjoy using social media platforms, the widespread usage of these sites presents significant concerns. While there are certain benefits associated with them, the drawbacks outweigh their advantages. These websites have various repercussions such as the inability to delete posted content, personal information being targeted by hackers, and potential threats to one’s future. These examples merely scratch the surface. Prior to sharing any online content – whether it is a photo, comment, blog post, video, or anything else – have you ever considered that once it is posted online, it remains permanently? Some people may believe that deleting something erases it entirely; however, this is not true.
Despite deleting the content, it remains impossible to ascertain who may have viewed, saved, or shared it with others. Although the content is no longer visible, it could still be a subject of discussion or accessible to others. Now, let us envision the future: imagine yourself married and raising children.
If your child finds a potentially inappropriate image of you that was shared online when you were younger, what should you do? Even if you previously deleted the image and thought it was gone forever, sadly it has resurfaced causing distress. Additionally, social media platforms are vulnerable to identity theft, hackers, and other criminals who aim to obtain your personal information.
While the chances of being hacked may seem low, online security is never absolute. The more personal information you reveal, the more susceptible you are to theft. In fact, a young hacker who managed to breach NASA once said, “Having this power feels like having immense control. You can manipulate computers owned by governments, militaries, and big companies. And with enough skill, you can explore the internet without any restrictions.”
“That’s power; it’s a power trip. What greater form of power than to have complete control over your life? Imagine if you update your status to say ‘gone to Orlando for the weekend.’ Now this thief (or hacker) is aware that you won’t be at home for the weekend, providing them with a convenient chance to break into your house and indulge in a little shopping spree.”
Hackers not only target personal belongings, but they also focus on finances. They have the capability to infiltrate Facebook or Twitter accounts and impersonate individuals. MSNBC reports reveal that hackers can even make posts in someone’s name, requesting money or trying to obtain valuable items. The consequences are extensive and frequently ignored. Additionally, these social media platforms pose a risk to one’s future.
Currently, colleges are incorporating the examination of social media platforms into their admissions procedures. According to a study conducted by Kaplan, it is astonishing that more than 80% of colleges employ Facebook as a means to interact with and attract prospective students. Nonetheless, they only investigate an individual’s social media presence if any concerns arise during the admissions process. It is remarkable to contemplate how a single unsuitable image, comment, or blog entry could potentially impede acceptance into one’s desired college. To sum up, there exist several unnoticed disadvantages associated with these social media platforms.
Posting something online makes it permanent and impossible to erase. There are risks such as hacking, identity theft, and negative consequences for the future, which can happen unexpectedly. Despite feeling safe on these platforms, the reality is often different. It’s crucial to think about potential harm before sharing anything on Facebook or other online sites.
