dinero_admin World Social Networking Day will be celebrated on june 30, a date established to recognize the profound impact that these platforms have had on society in a short period of time. Its influence covers multiple areas, from the work environment and information, to entertainment and everyday life.
According to the Digital 2024 report, there are currently more than 5 billion active users of social networks worldwide, within a global population that exceeds 8 billion. In addition, the study reveals that each user spends an average of 2 hours and 23 minutes per day on these platforms, distributed among different applications and services.
Although their main function is still to connect with family and friends, social networks are also an essential part of the work routine, daily life and news circulation. However, in a context of hyperconnectivity, a key aspect is often neglected: digital security.
ESET, a leading company in proactive threat detection, warns that social networks can be powerful tools for personal and professional development, but they can also become a source of risk if they are not used responsibly.
Social networks as allies
- Global connection: They allow us to communicate in real time with people anywhere in the world, strengthening personal and professional ties.
- Access to information and learning: They keep us constantly updated in real time on news, trends, knowledge, courses and free resources.
- Professional and commercial boost: They are ideal platforms for building personal brand, networking and boosting business through digital marketing.
- Service and customer service channel: Companies use social networks to resolve doubts, monitor their reputation and strengthen relationships with their community.
Social networks as a threat
However, the use of these platforms without adequate protection measures entails significant risks, among them:
- Exposure of personal data: Sharing sensitive information such as routines, locations or personal relationships can make it easier for cybercriminals to carry out extortion or fraud.
- Phishing, fake profile scams or malicious links are common practices. That is why it is important to review the privacy of the platforms and have secure passwords to avoid falling into some kind of scam.
- Disinformation and manipulation: Fake news, conspiracy theories and political or commercial manipulation campaigns spread rapidly thanks to algorithms, affecting public perception and decision making.
- Digital dependence and loss of privacy: Hyperconnectivity can lead to addiction, loss of productive time or constant exposure of habits, tastes, and decisions.
- Emotional and psychological impact: cyberbullying, hate speech, image pressure or constant comparisons can affect self-esteem and generate anxiety or isolation.
“Social networks are neither good nor bad in and of themselves. They are tools, and their impact depends on how we use them. For them to work as allies, it is necessary to enhance digital education, promote online responsibility and apply basic cybersecurity practices. ESET offers diverse functionalities that meet all the current needs of users”, concludes Camilo Gutiérrez Amaya, head of the Research Laboratory at ESET Latin America.
