Social Networks: How to Navigate the Complex Web of Digital Risks

Social networks have transformed modern communication, offering unprecedented ways to connect, share, and stay informed. Yet beyond the surface-level benefits of platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok lies a more complex and sometimes troubling reality that poses significant risks to societal security.

These digital platforms can both unite and divide communities, sometimes amplifying tensions that threaten social stability. Recent research has examined how social networks contribute to societal security risks—threats that can undermine the social fabric of communities or entire nations.

The global impact of social media was powerfully demonstrated following the 2020 killing of George Floyd in the United States. Videos of the incident spread rapidly across platforms, generating international outrage and solidarity movements far beyond American borders. In France, the footage sparked demonstrations and reignited debates about police violence and racism within French society, creating a phenomenon of transnational solidarity.

However, this capacity for rapid information sharing comes with significant downsides. Research published in Science reveals that false information spreads approximately six times faster than factual content on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). This rapid proliferation of misinformation—unintentional falsehoods—and disinformation—deliberate deception—can polarize societies, erode institutional trust, and even incite violence.

Political actors have recognized social networks as powerful tools of influence, allowing them to bypass traditional media gatekeepers and communicate directly with voters. This direct channel to often younger audiences offers unprecedented control over messaging, but also creates opportunities for manipulation.

The Africa Center for Strategic Studies reported a troubling trend in March 2024: disinformation campaigns targeting African information systems have increased nearly fourfold since 2022. This surge is particularly concerning given that younger demographics, who are heavy social media users according to Forbes and Datareportal statistics, are especially vulnerable to such manipulation.

Beyond domestic politics, social networks have become battlegrounds for what experts call “information wars”—conflicts waged with true or false information rather than conventional weapons. These digital campaigns aim to influence public opinion, destabilize opponents, and advance national interests. Electoral interference through orchestrated disinformation has become increasingly common worldwide.

The risks extend further into extremism and radicalization. Research indicates that extremist organizations effectively use social platforms to disseminate ideologies, often targeting vulnerable young people who may feel excluded or are searching for identity. While social networks aren’t the sole factor in radicalization—which remains a complex process—their role as facilitators cannot be overlooked.

Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, technology companies, and individual users. While regulatory frameworks and platform policies are essential components of any solution, individual digital literacy plays a crucial role in mitigating risks.

Experts recommend three key strategies for individual users seeking to navigate social media safely:

First, develop robust digital literacy skills. Learning to critically evaluate information, verify sources, and identify reliable content is essential. Resources like WhatsApp’s collaboration with the NASSCOM Foundation in India aim to train users to identify fake news, while fact-checking platforms like Libération’s CheckNews and Africa Check provide tools to verify circulating information.

Second, remain vigilant about algorithmic traps. Research consistently shows that algorithms contain inherent biases stemming from their design and the opaque nature of these systems. These biases can create filter bubbles that limit exposure to diverse perspectives and sometimes promote misleading content. Users should deliberately seek varied information sources and follow accounts offering different viewpoints.

Third, actively participate in platform governance by reporting problematic content. When encountering suspicious information, utilize reporting features to alert moderators. Additionally, blocking persistent sources of disinformation can protect against continued exposure to harmful content.

The societal security risk posed by social networks remains complex, multifaceted, and constantly evolving. As these platforms continue to shape public discourse, ongoing research, thoughtful regulation, and individual critical thinking skills will be essential to preserving their benefits while minimizing their potential harms.