Prerpints.org logo
Preprint
Article

Ethical Issues and Challenges in Social Media: A Current Scenario

Altmetrics

Downloads

7455

Views

3033

Comments

0

This version is not peer-reviewed

Electronic Communications, IOT and Big Data

Submitted:

29 March 2023

Posted:

29 March 2023

You are already at the latest version

Alerts
Abstract
Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate and interact with each other. While it has brought many benefits, it has also presented many ethical challenges. Social media platforms have access to an enormous amount of personal data, and there are concerns about how this data is being stored, collected, and used. Users often need to fully understand the risks of sharing sensitive information. Social media platforms have made it easy for fake news to spread rapidly, which can be dangerous and have serious consequences. Misinformation and propaganda can influence people's decisions and beliefs. In this paper, we will analyze the issues and challenges that may arise, and it will be necessary for individuals and society to address these challenges ethically and responsibly.
Keywords: 
Subject: Social Sciences  -   Media studies

Introduction

Social media refers to websites and online platforms allowing users to create, share content and interact with others. Examples include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, TikTok, etc. [1].
Social media has become a crucial part of modern society, with billions worldwide using these platforms to communicate, share information, and develop connection. Social media has many benefits, such as enabling people to stay updated and connected with friends and family, allowing businesses to communicate with customers, and facilitating exchanging of ideas, thoughts and information [1].
However, social media also has its downsides. One major issue is the spread of misinformation and fake news, which can have serious consequences, from undermining democratic processes to endangering public health. Another issue is cyberbullying, which can lead to mental health problems and even suicide. In addition, social media can be addictive and negatively impact mental health, particularly for those who spend excessive amounts of time on these platforms [1, 2].
Social media companies are responsible for addressing these issues and designing their platforms in a way that prioritizes user well-being. Some companies have taken steps to combat misinformation and cyberbullying, for example, by implementing fact-checking systems or warning labels on content deemed misleading. Other companies have changed their platforms' design to reduce addictive features.
Ultimately, it is up to individuals to use social media responsibly and be aware of the risks and ethical considerations involved. By using social media thoughtfully and responsibly, we can all help to create a safer and more positive online environment [1, 2, 3].

Ethical Implications of Social Media Users:

Social media has become ubiquitous in modern life, and its widespread use has brought about a range of ethical implications for its users. Privacy is one of the most pressing ethical issues in social media. Social media platforms often require users to share personal information to create a profile. This data is then used to personalize the user's experience on the platform and target them with advertising. However, this practice has raised concerns about the misuse of personal data and the potential for data breaches. Social media users must be aware of the risks involved in sharing their personal information online and should take steps to protect their privacy [1, 3].
Another ethical consideration is the potential for online harassment and cyberbullying. Social media platforms provide a platform for users to communicate with each other, but this can also lead to online harassment and bullying. This can have serious consequences for the victim, including mental health issues and suicide. Social media users must be aware of their words and actions impact on others and should strive to use these platforms respectfully and responsibly [1, 2, 3].
The spread of misinformation and fake news is another major ethical consideration for social media users. False information can have serious consequences, from undermining democratic processes to endangering public health. Social media users should be aware of the importance of fact-checking and should strive to share accurate and reliable information [1].
Finally, there is the issue of addiction to social media. Research has shown that excessive use of social media can negatively impact mental health, including depression, anxiety, and addiction. Social media users must be aware of their usage habits and strive to use these platforms balanced and healthy [5].
Social media has brought about many ethical considerations for its users. Privacy, cyberbullying, misinformation, and addiction are just a few issues that users must be aware of when using these platforms.

Ethics of Large-Scale Data Collection through Social Media:

Large-scale data collection through social media has become common among many companies and organizations. While this practice has the potential to provide valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences, it also raises a range of ethical concerns.
One of the primary ethical concerns of large-scale data collection through social media is the issue of consent. Users of social media platforms often need to fully understand the extent to which their data is being collected and used. This lack of understanding can lead to a situation where users unknowingly consent to manage their data. Companies and organizations that engage in large-scale data collection must ensure that they are obtaining informed consent from users and that users understand how their data will be used [6].
Another ethical concern is the issue of privacy. Large-scale data collection often involves collecting sensitive personal information, such as location data, browsing history, and purchasing habits. This information can be used to create detailed profiles of individuals, which can then be used for targeted advertising or other purposes. Companies and organizations that engage in large-scale data collection must ensure that they are protecting individuals' privacy and not sharing or selling this information without the individual's consent [7].
A related ethical concern is the issue of transparency. Companies and organizations that engage in large-scale data collection must be transparent about their data collection practices and how they use the data they collect. Users must understand what information is being collected, how it is being used, and who it is being shared with [7,8].
Finally, there is the issue of data security. Large-scale data collection can result in vast data being stored in databases. These databases can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, and the loss or theft of this data can have serious consequences for individuals. Companies and organizations that engage in large-scale data collection must ensure that they are implementing robust security measures to protect the data they collect [9].
Large-scale data collection through social media raises various ethical concerns, including consent, privacy, transparency, and data security. Companies and organizations that engage in this practice must ensure that they are acting ethically and responsibly and protecting the privacy and security of individuals [10].

Some Ethical Issues and Challenges in Social Media:

1. Privacy: Social media platforms have access to an enormous amount of personal data, and there are concerns about how this data is collected, stored, and used. Users often need to understand the risks of sharing sensitive information fully. Privacy is a significant concern regarding social media, as these platforms often require users to share personal information to create a profile and engage with others.
One of the most important privacy considerations is the sharing of personal information. Social media platforms often require users to share personal information, such as their name, email address, and location, to create a profile. The platform can use this information to personalize the user's experience and target them with advertising. However, it can also be used for more nefarious purposes, such as identity theft or stalking. Users must be aware of the risks involved in sharing their personal information online and should take steps to protect their privacy [12].
Another privacy consideration is the collection of data by social media platforms. These platforms collect vast amounts of user data, including browsing history, search queries, and interactions with other users. This data can be used to create detailed profiles of individuals and to target them with advertising. Users must be aware of the extent to which their data is being collected and used and should take steps to limit the data being collected about them [1, 2, 3].
A related privacy consideration is the sharing of data by social media platforms. These platforms often share user data with third-party advertisers and other companies. Users must be aware of who their data is being shared with and should be able to control how it is shared.
Finally, there is the issue of data breaches. Social media platforms store vast amounts of personal data, and this data can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Data breaches can result in the loss or theft of personal information, seriously affecting individuals. Users must be aware of the risks involved in storing their data online and should take steps to protect their data [11].
Privacy is a significant concern regarding social media. Users must be aware of the risks involved in sharing their personal information online and should take steps to protect their privacy. This includes limiting the amount of shared personal information, being aware of how their data is being collected and used, and taking steps to protect their data from cyberattacks [12].
2. Cyberbullying: Social media platforms have become a breeding ground for cyberbullying, which can have devastating consequences for victims. It can also lead to social exclusion and mental health issues. Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that occurs through electronic means, such as social media platforms, messaging apps, and online forums. It is a serious issue that can significantly impact the mental health and well-being of those who experience it. In this essay, I will discuss the impact of cyberbullying on social media and some of the measures that can be taken to address it [13].
One of the primary impacts of cyberbullying on social media is the spread of hurtful or harmful messages. Cyberbullies can use social media platforms to post mean comments, spread rumors, or share embarrassing photos or videos of their victims. These messages can be seen by a wide audience and quickly go viral, causing significant emotional distress for the victim.
Another impact of cyberbullying on social media is the anonymity that it provides. Cyberbullies can hide behind fake usernames or profiles, making it difficult for their victims to identify them or take action against them. This anonymity can embolden cyberbullies to engage in more extreme forms of bullying, making it difficult for victims to feel safe online [15].
A related impact of cyberbullying on social media is the 24/7 nature of social media platforms. Victims of cyberbullying can be subjected to hurtful messages and comments at any time of the day or night, making it difficult for them to escape from the bullying. This can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety [16].
To address cyberbullying on social media, several measures can be taken. One approach is to educate young people about the impact of cyberbullying and the importance of treating others with respect online. Schools, parents, and other organizations can provide resources and support to help young people navigate the online world safely and respectfully.
Another approach is implementing policies and guidelines for social media platforms to prevent cyberbullying. These policies could include banning hate speech, harassment, and threats and providing tools for users to report bullying behavior. Social media companies can also invest in technology to detect and remove bullying content before it can cause harm. It is crucial to support victims of cyberbullying and provide them with resources and tools to cope with the emotional impact of bullying. This could include counseling services, support groups, and online resources that provide information and advice on how to deal with cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying is a serious issue that can significantly impact those who experience it. Social media platforms have provided a new avenue for cyberbullying, but some measures can be taken to address it. By educating young people about the impact of cyberbullying, implementing policies to prevent bullying on social media, and providing support and resources for victims, we can work to create a safer and more respectful online environment.
3. Fake News: Social media platforms have made it easy for fake news to spread rapidly, which can be dangerous and have serious consequences. Misinformation and propaganda can influence people's decisions and beliefs. Fake news refers to false or misleading information presented as factual news. Social media platforms are often used to spread fake news due to their massive reach and easy accessibility.
Social media algorithms are designed to show users content that aligns with their interests and preferences, which can create filter bubbles and echo chambers, where users only see content that confirms their existing beliefs and biases. This can make it easier for fake news to spread rapidly and widely, as users are more likely to share and engage with content that aligns with their worldview, even if it is false [16].
In addition, social media allows for the rapid spread of information without fact-checking or editorial oversight, which can lead to the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories. These can have serious consequences, such as when false information about the COVID-19 vaccine leads people to avoid getting vaccinated, increasing the risk of infection and transmission [19].
Social media companies have taken steps to combat the spread of fake news on their platforms, such as fact-checking and labeling false information and reducing the reach of content that violates their policies. However, the problem persists, and it is vital for individuals to critically evaluate the information they see online and seek out reliable sources.
4. Addiction: Social media can be addictive, and people may spend excessive time on social media platforms. This can negatively impact productivity, relationships, and mental health. Social media addiction refers to the compulsive and excessive use of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. People addicted to social media often spend hours a day scrolling through their feeds, checking notifications, and responding to messages, even at the expense of other important activities.
There are several reasons why people become addicted to social media. For one, social media platforms are designed to be addictive. The platforms use algorithms and notifications to keep users engaged and coming back for more. Social media provides constant stimulation, validation, and connection with others.
Social media addiction can negatively affect a person's mental health, relationships, and productivity. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Additionally, social media addiction can interfere with a person's ability to focus on important tasks and negatively impact their academic or professional performance.
To reduce the risk of developing social media addiction, it is important to be mindful of your social media use and to set limits on your screen time. This can include scheduling social media breaks throughout the day, turning off notifications, and avoiding using social media before bed. Seeking support from friends and family, or seeking professional help if necessary, can also be beneficial.
5. Online Harassment: Social media platforms can be used to harass and intimidate individuals, which can lead to significant emotional distress and even physical harm. Online harassment can take many forms, such as threats, stalking, doxxing (publishing someone's private information online), spreading rumors or lies, and making derogatory or offensive comments. It can target individuals or groups based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other characteristics. [12, 13].
Social media platforms have unique features that can make online harassment more pervasive and damaging. For example, the ability to create anonymous accounts or pseudonyms can make it difficult to hold perpetrators accountable. The speed and reach of social media can also amplify the impact of harassment, with messages or comments quickly spreading to large audiences [14, 15].
Online harassment can have serious consequences for victims, including mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, social isolation, and even physical harm in some cases. It can also negatively impact a person's professional or academic life. To combat online harassment, social media platforms need to take steps to prevent and respond to abusive behavior.
This can include implementing policies and guidelines to prohibit harassment, providing reporting mechanisms for users to report abusive behavior, and taking swift action to remove or block accounts that engage in harassment. It is also important for users to be aware of the risks of online harassment and to take steps to protect themselves, such as setting privacy settings and avoiding engaging in harassing comments or messages.
6. Discrimination: Social media platforms have been accused of facilitating discrimination, particularly gender, race, and ethnicity. This can be hate speech, trolling, and targeted attacks. Discrimination on social media refers to the unfair treatment or prejudice against individuals or groups based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other personal characteristics. Discrimination can take many forms on social media, including hate speech, offensive comments or images, and exclusionary behavior.
Social media platforms have become a forum for people to express their opinions and beliefs, and unfortunately, this can sometimes result in discriminatory behavior. Discrimination on social media can have serious consequences, such as damaging a person's mental health, creating social divisions, and contributing to a culture of hate and intolerance [17].
Social media platforms have a responsibility to prevent discrimination on their platforms. This can include implementing policies and guidelines to prohibit discriminatory behavior, educating and training users about appropriate online behavior, and taking swift action to remove or block accounts that engage in discrimination. Social media companies must create an inclusive and safe environment for all users [18].
Individual users also have a responsibility to prevent discrimination on social media. This can include speaking out against discriminatory behavior, reporting incidents of discrimination to the platform, and promoting positive and inclusive online interactions. It is important for users to recognize the impact their online behavior can have on others and to strive to create a positive and respectful online community [20].
7. Content Moderation: Social media platforms face the difficult task of moderating content, and there are concerns about censorship, freedom of speech, and bias. Content moderation is important for maintaining a safe and respectful environment on social media platforms. It can help prevent harmful or offensive content from being shared with a large audience, protect users from harassment and discrimination, and prevent the spread of misinformation or false information.
Social media platforms use automated tools and human moderators to moderate content. Automated tools such as algorithms detect and remove content that violates community standards or policies, such as hate speech, violent or graphic content, or spam. Human moderators are responsible for reviewing content that is flagged by automated tools, as well as reviewing appeals from users whose content has been removed.
Content moderation on social media platforms is a complex and challenging task. It involves balancing the need to protect users and maintain community standards while respecting users' freedom of speech and expression. Some content may be offensive or harmful but may not necessarily violate community standards or policies and, therefore, may not be removed.
Social media platforms have been criticized for their content moderation practices, with some users feeling that their content has been unfairly removed or restricted [25, 26, 27]. To address these concerns, social media platforms are continuously refining their content moderation policies and procedures and providing greater transparency and accountability around their moderation practices.
Conclusion: Social media has brought many benefits to our lives, such as increasing connectivity, access to information, and opportunities for self-expression. However, it has also brought many ethical issues and challenges that must be addressed. These issues include privacy concerns, the spread of misinformation, addiction and social media, online harassment, discrimination, and content moderation.
Addressing these ethical issues and challenges requires a collective effort from social media companies, governments, and individuals. Social media companies must prioritize the privacy and security of their users, take steps to prevent the spread of misinformation and hate speech, and develop effective content moderation policies and procedures. Governments can play a role in regulating social media platforms to protect the interests of their citizens, while individuals must take responsibility for their online behavior and strive to create a positive and respectful online community. As social media continues to evolve and become an increasingly integral part of our lives, it is important that we continue to address these ethical issues and challenges to ensure that social media remains a force for good in our world.

Funding

No funding was used in this work.

Conflicts of Interest

The author declares no conflicts of interest.

References

  1. Appadurai, A 1996, Modernity at large: cultural dimensions of globalization, University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis. [CrossRef]
  2. Castells, M 2009, Communication Power, Oxford University Press, Oxford.
  3. Dhiman, D. (2022). Condition of Women Prisoners in Model Jail, Chandigarh: A Communication Study. Condition of Women Prisoners in Model Jail, Chandigarh: A Communication Study (August 26, 2022). [CrossRef]
  4. Dhiman, B. (2019). Effects of Online News Applications for Android–A Critical Analysis. European Journal of Business and Social Sciences, 7(2), 815-819.
  5. Dhiman, B. (2021). The Practice of Media Education and Media Research: A Review on Five Asian Countries. Global Media Journal, 19(44), 1-7. [CrossRef]
  6. Dhiman, D. (2021). Psychosocial Impact of Web Series and Streaming Content: A Study on Indian Youth. Dhiman, B., & Malik, PS (2021). Psychosocial Impact of Web Series and Streaming Content: A Study on Indian Youth. Global Media Journal, 19(46), 1-7.
  7. Pawan Singh Malik, Bharat Dhiman (2022) Science Communication in India: Current Trends and Future Vision. Journal of Media & Management. SRC/ JMM-171. [CrossRef]
  8. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Use and Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance of Kurukshetra University Students: A Case Study (September 8, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4212827. [CrossRef]
  9. Dr. Abid Ali, Bharat. (2021). Impact of Smartphone: A Review on Negative Effects on Students. PalArch’s Journal of Archaeology of Egypt / Egyptology, 18(4), 5710-5718. Retrieved from https://www.archives.palarch.nl/index.php/jae/article/view/7164.
  10. Dr. Abid Ali, Bharat. (2020). Influence of Social Media in Developing Social Anxiety: A Study of Kurukshetra University Students. PalArch’s Journal of Archaeology of Egypt / Egyptology, 17(12), 1585-1592. Retrieved from https://archives.palarch.nl/index.php/jae/article/view/7167.
  11. Dhiman, D. (2021). Awareness of MOOCs among Students: A Study of Kurukshetra University. International Journal of Interdisciplinary Organizational Studies.
  12. Dhiman, D. (2021). Newspaper Reading Habits among UG and PG Students of Kurukshetra University: A Case Study. International Journal of Interdisciplinary Organizational Studies.
  13. Dhiman, B. Does Artificial Intelligence help Journalists: A Boon or Bane?. Preprints 2023, 2023030428. [CrossRef]
  14. Dhiman B (2023) Games as Tools for Social Change Communication: A Critical Review. Global Media Journal, 21:61. [CrossRef]
  15. Dhiman, D.B. A Critical Analysis of Vulgar Language on OTT Platforms: A Systematic Review. Preprints 2023, 2023030486. [CrossRef]
  16. Bharat Dhiman (2023) Key Issues and New Challenges in New Media Technology in 2023: A Critical Review. Journal of Media & Management. SRC/JMM-184.
  17. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Snapchat, Happiest and Personal Social Media Platform for Research Scholars, A Critical study (September 10, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4215268. [CrossRef]
  18. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Identification of Psychosocial Issues Among Researchers of Kurukshetra University: A Critical Study (September 5, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4215283. [CrossRef]
  19. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Usage of Whatsapp Among Students of Kurukshetra University: A Case study (September 10, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4215291. [CrossRef]
  20. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Negative Impact of Television Viewing on Academic Achievements of Students: A Case Study of Subhash Nagar (September 13, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4218010. [CrossRef]
  21. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Academic Stress among Ph.D. Research Scholars with Reference to Kurukshetra University: An Empirical Study (September 13, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4218024. [CrossRef]
  22. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Negative Impact of Cartoons Channels on School Children: An Empirical Study (October 1, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4235010. [CrossRef]
  23. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, A Descriptive Study of Interactive, Multimedia Features of Online News Portal (October 1, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4235012. [CrossRef]
  24. Dhiman, Dr. Bharat, Artificial Intelligence and Voice Assistant in Media Studies: A Critical Review (October 18, 2022). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4250795. [CrossRef]
  25. Dhiman, D. (2021). Use of E-Resources by Research Scholars of Kurukshetra University: A Case Study. International Journal of Interdisciplinary Organizational Studies.
  26. Dhiman B (2022) Ecosystem Degradation and the Need for Restoration: Through the Lens of Environment and Human Health. Environ Pollut Climate Change 6: 304.
  27. Dhiman, B. (2021). The Practice of Media Education and Media Research: A Review on Five Asian Countries. Global Media Journal, 19(44), 1-7. [CrossRef]
  28. Kaplan, A. M., & Haenlein, M. (2010). Users of the world, unite!: The challenges and opportunities of social media. Business Horizons, 53 (1), 59-68. [CrossRef]
  29. King, D. L. (2010). 10 Reasons to not quit Facebook. Retrieved June 18, 2010 from http://www.davidleeking.com/2010/05/04/10-reasons-to-not-quit-facebook/.
  30. McCreary, L. (2008). What was privacy? Harvard Business Review, 86(10), 123-131.
  31. Toffler, A. (1980). The third wave. New York: Bantam Books.
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.
Copyright: This open access article is published under a Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 license, which permit the free download, distribution, and reuse, provided that the author and preprint are cited in any reuse.
Prerpints.org logo

Preprints.org is a free preprint server supported by MDPI in Basel, Switzerland.

facebook logotwitter logolinkedin logo
MDPI Initiatives
Important Links
Subscribe

Disclaimer

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

© 2024 MDPI (Basel, Switzerland) unless otherwise stated