Every technology is created for the welfare of humanity, society, and the world. However, when misused, its harm outweighs its benefits.
1. Loss of Privacy
Social media often leads to the loss of personal privacy. Posting personal information and pictures can compromise individual rights. This particularly affects women and children, damaging their privacy, relationships, and social bonds.
2. Mental Pressure
Social media increases mental stress and peer pressure. People feel compelled to follow trends just because others are doing so. This comparison culture leads to mental unrest. News reports frequently highlight cases of young individuals facing depression or even committing suicide due to social media-induced stress.
3. Data Theft
Many institutions and individuals face data theft through social media. Continuous online presence allows location tracking, which has both positive and negative implications.
4. Hacking
Security breaches or hacking result in data theft, leading to financial losses. Cyber fraud cases are rising, and most scam links originate from social media.
5. False Perceptions
Social media fosters accusations, mental harassment, stress, and jealousy, negatively impacting the brain. It creates unrealistic perceptions of life, surroundings, and personal situations.
6. Fake News
While some accurate news is shared, social media is often used to spread false information to mislead or defame opponents. The rapid spread of misinformation causes confusion, with AI further amplifying the issue.
7. Digital Addiction
Excessive use of social media makes users oblivious to time, place, and situation. People remain engrossed in it even in temples, funerals, meetings, or in the presence of elders. It disrupts normal and social life, acting like an addiction.
8. Health Issues
Overuse of social media increases screen time, affecting eyesight. It can lead to migraines, high blood pressure, insomnia, and other health problems.
While social media has many benefits, its misuse can lead to severe consequences. Awareness and responsible use are essential to minimizing its negative effects.