IN this modern generation, who does not use social media? Digital platforms are great tools for building connections and expanding opportunities worldwide. However, it has recently become a platform for rapidly disseminating false information.  

According to Forbes Advisor, approximately 4.9 billion individuals are using social media worldwide in 2023. Every day, we are exposed to digital platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, and Threads. Whenever we lack knowledge about simple things like food recipes, coffee shop recommendations, or even the most random questions that come to mind, we frequently resort to the internet for answers. It can also be used for raising awareness and voicing out opinions regarding different societal issues such as poverty and lack of education. However, everything has its negative sides, and that includes the use of these platforms.

What could go wrong? It points to how we utilize them in acquiring and disseminating information. People often rely on social media when it comes to getting information that they forget to verify whether the sources are reliable. Although this practice proves helpful in many situations, it is also essential to remember that not all news we come across online is accurate. Because of this, it has become challenging to determine what content is based on facts, half-truths, or lies because there are so many sources available online. Consequently, fake news can reach millions of users within minutes which creates a challenging environment where the truth finds it difficult to triumph. 

As an individual, how can we take effective actions to reduce the amount of fake news and its rapid spread? The key to navigating this situation lies in exercising control over our social media usage and the importance of double-checking or even triple-checking the information we come across. Moreover, we must be mindful of the influence and power it holds and be responsible enough for every interaction we make on these platforms to maintain a safe digital community.