Social Networking

Social media is a website or application that allows users to communicate by posting, commenting, or sharing digital media. This includes platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook.

Age Restrictions on social media

Many social media applications and websites have age restrictions. This means you must be a certain age to sign up and use their services.

• Inappropriate content
  Some social media platforms may have content that is not suitable for younger users. Age restrictions help protect young people from exposure to harmful or inappropriate material.

• Data privacy laws
  There are legal restrictions on data collection for those under the age of 13. 

Sharing data on social media

A lot of people share personal data on social media, including videos, photos, text posts, stories, and messages. However, it’s important to be aware that:

• The data you post online may be used to tailor ads specifically to you based on your online activity.

• Your activity across the internet can be tracked by companies and organizations to gather information about you.

• Posts you make today could be used against you in the future, such as by potential employers or universities reviewing your social media history.

We should all work to reduce the size of our digital footprint to avoid these unintended consequences.

Social media addiction

Another issue surrounding social media is addiction. Social media platforms are designed to keep you engaged for as long as possible. Constant notifications, likes, and comments can create a dopamine-driven cycle that encourages users to spend excessive time on these platforms.

Signs of social media addiction:

• Checking social media first thing in the morning and last thing at night.
• Feeling anxious or restless when you can’t access social media.
• Spending more time on social media than with friends or on hobbies.

Social Media Top Tips

• Use privacy features to limit who can see your content. Adjust your account settings to control who can view your posts and personal information.
• Take breaks from social media, or set time limits to reduce your usage. Regular breaks help maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
• Think before you post. Always consider whether the content you’re sharing could have negative consequences for yourself or others.
• Avoid oversharing personal details. Limit the amount of personal information you post, such as your location, full name, or contact details.
• Be cautious when accepting friend or follower requests. Not everyone online is who they claim to be, so only connect with people you know and trust.
• Turn off notifications. Disable unnecessary alerts to reduce distractions and prevent constant checking of your phone.
• Report and block harmful content. If you encounter inappropriate or harmful behavior, use the platform's reporting tools to flag it and protect yourself.