8 Dangers of Social Media Use To Be Careful Of

Anything in excess could be dangerous. Too much time spent on social media could turn into an addiction. Symptoms may include phone possessiveness, isolation, stress, and anxiety among other things.

The fear of missing out (FOMO) may cause anxiety over not being included in certain events. This often arises when one sees posts of friends and/or family members.

Technology is being used by others to take bullying to a whole new level. Cyberbullying affects kids and adults alike. The perpetrators are usually people who simply want to hurt others to feel good about themselves.

According to various studies, social media can negatively impact a user’s mental health. Mental health issues connected to social media use include low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, and depression.

Social media accounts are the favorite targets of hackers. This often occurs through compromised links or by accepting friend requests from strangers. Hackers may access user’s personal information, messages, and even other online accounts.

Social media platforms usually collect information about their users. While these platforms have become more transparent and even offer enhanced data control and privacy features, there are still concerns about these platforms sharing user information with a third-party.

Social media platforms have also become a favorite haunt of sex offenders. Child groomers often use fake accounts to trick their victims into sending explicit photos and videos, or worse, into meeting up with them.

Reckless posting on social media may damage one’s personal and even professional reputation. Explicit, obscene, and/or controversial social media content could tarnish one’s reputation forever.