4 Things to consider before dissemination information with social media in time of calamities

 1. AVOID SPREADING FALSE INFORMATION

Nowadays, almost everyone is linked with the internet especially in social media apps that are popular and widely used all over the world. It is used for different purposes but its main purpose is it contains many information and article about a particular subject that might be relevant to each one of us. Unfortunately, not all information is trustworthy. Social media outlets have been used to spread misinformation and conspiracy theories, and to promote false treatments. 

Not all we read and see on the internet especially on articles and links that are shared are real and relevant. Sometimes, in other terms, it is called “fake news.” From the word itself ‘fake,’ that it is intentionally created to share and spread low-quality, false information. With so much free information online it’s easy to get distracted by all the false materials polluting the web. The best thing we can do to avoid these circumstances is not to spread false information by using credible sources because using credible sources in your content strengthens your message. 

Do not rely on sources that are opinion-based, or have no sources. It’s always necessary to fact-check information before spreading it to which audience you may want to be informed on a particular subject especially on calamity or crisis-related subjects that can affect communities.

2. THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK

With so much information that is free right in front of our eyes that will answer our curiosity about a particular subject, we just click and click until we’re satisfied with what we have seen. In other cases, with the excitement or we’re full of emotions to share or post something online, we post it right away without thinking how would it impact our audience or those people who will see it.

There are more than four billion people on the internet today, and many of them use social media to communicate. But while social media can be fun and a great way to chat with friends to inform a lot of people about what’s is happening around the world but it can be risky as well. It is important to think before you click because this information can largely affect other people's lives. In times of calamities, you might bring information but as well threaten everyone if you don’t think fully of what you are uploading on social media.

When people share personal information not only about themselves but also some links or articles about a situation that happens in some places, they may become targets for scammers and identity thieves that’s why think before you click. Always be mindful when using the internet especially on using social media apps. Check your security and privacy because you might not want to be a victim of those scammers or a hacker. They’re everywhere. Not only it can harm you, but others as well. 

3. OBSERVE PROPER NETIQUETTE

Netiquette refers to your Internet etiquette or the way you behave online and on social media. Because the majority of online communication is completely non-verbal, you cannot see or use facial expressions or tone of voice to back what you are typing.

Thus, something said sarcastically can be taken literally by some audience, creating serious social problems or in other instances, some situations are taken sarcastically which should be taken seriously because it can cause a negative impact on the people who are affected by the said situation. Professionalism is not only required when you are having a job but also on the internet especially in using social media in spreading information. Think of what kind of information you are about to spread as well particularly if you’re talking about natural phenomena like the different calamities.

Be cautious and communicate with a proper and appropriate tone when you are communicating and posting online to avoid misunderstandings. Treat people the way you would like to be treated, and you will avoid quite a number of potential problems. Remember, on the other side of that computer screen is a real person with thoughts and feelings just like you, so talk to them with kindness and respect. Lastly, identify yourself and put yourself in the shoe of others about how you sound when you communicate with other people. 

4. USE SOCIAL MEDIA RESPONSIBLY

Almost everyone is growing up in this digital age is learning how to use technology at a huge rate of speed.  When used appropriately, there are so many positive benefits that come with technology and using social media. 

Along with the benefits of social media, risks and negative consequences can arise. In disseminating information online; what we post, spread, and share through times of crises or calamities, is a huge responsibility for us to take and to acknowledge what we have disseminated online. Just what have said earlier, avoid spreading false information; think before you click, and observe proper netiquette are acts of being a responsible user of social media. 

Overall, this is what makes social media an effective tool because it keeps people aware and updated especially in times of crisis or calamity. If it is used right in information dissemination especially in times of calamities, communities, families or workers would be in better and right places.