The Two Sides of Social Media

The Two Sides of Social Media

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If there is one thing that everyone, almost everyone, is into these days, it is definitely the use of Social Media. Users can chat, play, shop and even earn upon its use. A single click on the Like, Share or Send button can create thousands of possibilities and response from other even from the other side of the continent. This may sound perfect but just like everything else in this world, the Social Media has its own share of imperfections too, and that is in the face of misuse and lack of security. That's why, it is important for us, users, to be educated about the proper utilization of Social Media by being cautious and responsible for our actions. 

During the earlier years, people are accustomed to the usual brick and mortar or physical stores to buy products. Now, the emergence of Social Media opened an opportunity for business and the evidence is the prevalence of online shopping that is said to be more convenient than going outside to buy in malls and in the perspective of the business owner, cheaper than paying rent and other expenses. Goods such as imported perfumes, apparels and merchandise can now be ordered with few simple clicks. Moreover, the fact that the Social Media connects people everywhere made it more or less than a basic necessity of our generation. Users can also meet new people of same interest or even rekindle with loved ones who are far away. Another factor is that Social Media provides novelty---users can connect to others in various ways. There is the regular chat, the audio call, video chat, group or conference chats and etc. Also, Social Media is the express medium of sharing information. It is very much obvious that today, even news contents are now available online instead of just being disseminated in print or television.

On the downside, Social Media is a threat for security. Not all users are with good intentions. For example, there are reports about scams, bogus sellers/buyers, cyber-sex, cyber-bullying and other online related crimes that are surfacing today. Everyone, even regular people can be a victim of hateful or degrading comments from people who sadly doesn't even know you at all. There are so many things going on online at once that it is impossible to take down all of the negative activities immediately. The Social Media can be a breeding place for the good and bad and sadly, not all people are educated on how to use it properly.

Overall, The Social Media can be a blessing or the exact opposite. It depends on the experience of the user and how he uses it. The good thing is that there are initiatives that are advocating the responsible use of Social Media. They teach people on how to discern or be critical on how they accept messages or meanings online which is absolutely what all of us should be knowledgeable about. Another good thing is that the endeavour for a peaceful and "healthier" Social Media environment is possible. With the awakening of more potential responsible users, the Social Media can be a happy place to be with.