A couple of years ago, I heard the grade above me discussing essays they were writing over whether social media should be censored. Since then, I have pondered the answer to this question. Should social media abide by specific laws? Should it be more strictly patrolled than it is now?
Sure, there are requirements for making online accounts. One must be a certain age and sign up according to the guidelines. Unfortunately, it is easy to lie and surpass these rules. I do not know anyone, including myself, who did not create accounts because the app said they were too young. Their parents may not have allowed them, but they never claimed otherwise.
Additionally, there are consistently reporting buttons. Many platforms have icons that look like flags, so the consumer understands the importance of exposing inappropriate content. Although the tool can be helpful, it takes a lot of work for the post to be reviewed. In fact, I have seen it take days or even never.
Coupling these ideas, how can the Internet we know and love be safe? Young kids can discover dangerous material exceptionally quickly. TikTok For You Pages are not foolproof, nor are YouTube video suggestions. Furthermore, more inquiries arise. Is this a parents’ issue or a world issue? No matter how protective parents can be, the online universe is hazardous for impressionable minds. It is up to social media providers to assist in sheltering their innocence.
If stricter bylaws were to be enacted, would free speech be hindered? Social media is not a kid’s playground. Indeed, It is adults’ right to share their opinions on their pages. They are of age to own their accounts and should be able to post as they like. We cannot live in a censored country, but we can live in a secure one. This idea factors into an online presence.