Is Social media a fake media ?

We can’t deny the fact that, social media plays a role in spreading misinformation. The internet and social media have made it very easy for anyone to publish content on a website, blog or social media profile to potentially reach large audiences. With many people now getting news from social media sites, many content creators/publishers have used this to their advantage.

False information can be a profitable business, generating large sums of advertising revenue for publishers who create and publish stories that go viral. The more clicks a story gets, the more money online publishers make through advertising revenue and for many publishers social media is an ideal platform to share content and drive web traffic.

Social media use becomes problematic when someone views social networking sites as an important coping mechanism. Whether or not social media is "fake media" is a complex question with no easy answer.

Checking and scrolling through social media has become an increasingly popular activity over the years. There are significant percentage of users who are addicted to social networking sites and engage in excessive or compulsive use.

The rising concern is of fake Instagram and Facebook likes and the danger they pose. Scammers use fake accounts to boost the engagement of their posts, making them appear more popular and trustworthy. These likes come from bots or paid users, creating a false sense of legitimacy.

Today, several brands gain access to the celebrity's large follower base, potentially boosting their own visibility and reach. Whereas, paying exorbitant fees for a few clicks and likes might not translate to substantial sales or conversions. It has also been reported that, some celebrity endorsements might feel inauthentic or forced, potentially damaging brand credibility and consumer trust.

The high-priced world of celebrity Instagram engagement presents both opportunities and challenges. While it can offer short-term boosts and marketing advantages, it's crucial to be aware of potential pit-falls like inflated metrics, inauthenticity, and manipulation.

Ultimately, focusing on sustainable organic growth, responsible brand behaviour, and critical consumerism is key to navigating this complex digital landscape.

Ultimately, both individuals and the platform need to work together to create a safer and more positive online environment on Instagram and Facebook. By being aware of the risks, taking precautions, and holding the platform accountable, we can make a difference in protecting ourselves and each other from harmful threats.