TECH4GOOD

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. It connects us with friends and family, keeps us informed about current events, facts, and fake news, provides us with our daily dose of saucy gossip, and allows us to express ourselves. However, most of us have become so dependent on it that we forget that social media platforms have become breeding grounds for scams. 

Our habit of having our social media accounts always on comes with its own set of risks. One of the primary reasons people fall for online scams is the sheer volume of content most of us are exposed to on social media. With countless posts, ads, and messages vying for our attention, it becomes challenging to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent content. Scammers often take advantage of this overwhelming influx of information by creating convincing fake profiles, posts, and advertisements. 

With fake profiles, scammers can post deceptive advertisements and send friend requests to unsuspecting users. Once trust is established, they may request financial assistance or share links to fraudulent websites. The more time we spend on social media, the greater the risk of encountering these scams. The anonymity and reach of social media enable scammers to target a broad audience with minimal effort.

Phishing scams, a common tactic cybercriminals use on social media, have been featured many times in this column. These scams typically involve fake messages or posts that appear to be from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or well-known organizations. The messages often contain urgent requests for personal information or links to malicious websites. When people spend excessive time on social media, they may not take the time to scrutinize the legitimacy of such messages.

Another significant risk associated with excessive social media use is the spread of fake advertisements. Scammers create enticing ads for non-existent products or services, often at unbelievably low prices, to lure unsuspecting users into purchasing. These fraudulent ads can appear as sponsored posts, stories, or even direct messages on social media platforms. The nature of social media encourages impulsive behavior, such as clicking on links or responding to messages without thorough scrutiny. Scammers often use urgency in their communications to pressure users into hasty decisions. 

Social media platforms have also become a typical venue for love scams where scammers create fake profiles to build romantic relationships with unsuspecting users. Once trust is established, the scammer may request financial assistance, often citing emergencies or fabricated sad stories. The emotional attachment developed through these online interactions can make it difficult for victims to recognize the scam.

Various studies have pointed out excessive social media use can diminish awareness of online security practices. When people are constantly engaged with their devices, they may become complacent and neglect essential security measures. To make it more convenient to use their social media accounts, they usually settle for weak passwords, neglect to update their software, do not care about reviewing privacy settings, or even overlook the importance of using two-factor authentication.

Being slaves to social media prevents us from achieving a healthier work-life balance and engaging in healthy offline activities. When we are less preoccupied with our phones, we have more time to participate in hobbies, exercise, and spend quality time with loved ones. This shift in focus can lead to improved mental well-being and reduced stress levels, enhancing our overall judgment and decision-making capabilities when confronted with scams that are too good to be true. A clear, focused mind is better equipped to recognize and respond to potential online threats.

Several ways can help us reduce the time we spend on social media. We can set time limits or designate specific times for checking social media rather than allowing it to occupy spontaneous moments throughout the day. We can also replace social media time with hobbies or activities that promote face-to-face interactions. Disabling notifications can also significantly reduce the urge to check on social media frequently. 

We can also help ensure online safety by educating friends and family about online safety practices and sharing knowledge about common scams and security measures. Informing our network is vital, as scammers often target us and all our connections.

Developing the necessary discipline to significantly reduce the time spent on social media can protect us from online scams. By limiting our exposure to potential threats, exercising greater caution when interacting online, and implementing robust security practices, we can safeguard ourselves against cybercrime. In our increasingly digital world, taking control of our social media usage is essential for staying safe and secure online.

(The author is an executive member of the National Innovation Council, lead Convener of the Alliance for Technology Innovators for the Nation (ATIN), vice president of the Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines, and vice president of UP System Information Technology Foundation. Email: t4g.tmb@gmail.com)