Be savvy about social media

Between other important points, she spoke about the rise of cyberbullying, selfies, sexting, nude photos, revenge pornography, sextortion, blackmail, digital shadow and other illegal crazes that could affect both adults and children online.

Her famous statement “digital content is dangerous content” is apt in this world of fake and instant news.

The internet, digital media and, by extension, the social media has become one of the main mechanisms of communication and it can be said that we are addicted to social media.

Social networks are now so intensely and broadly rooted in our lives that it feels ridiculous to think of them as some alien device or to separate ourselves from it.

Social media, if used correctly, can be an amazing tool for all, so it is important to teach students and children how to be savvy when using social media.

Instead of worrying about the harmful influence of family, friends and neighbours, we need to empower children with information about productive online practice as they navigate the digital landscape or world.

MOHAMED SAEED Pietermaritzburg