Avoid amplifying harmful messages, thought leaders, influencers, told

 

Content Forum CEO Mediha Mahmood said “bad actors” have been exploiting social media to rapidly spread “divisive and damaging” content. - NSTP/File Pic

KUALA LUMPUR: Thought leaders and social media influencers have been reminded against endorsing or amplifying harmful messages, amid the rise in hateful and offensive content on social media.

The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum (the Content Forum) said thought leaders and influencers should promote responsible social media use.

"As individuals with significant influence and reach, they possess a unique opportunity to shape online discourse positively," said Content Forum CEO Mediha Mahmood.

"We urge them to leverage their platforms to amplify messages of tolerance, empathy, and critical thinking while refraining from endorsing or amplifying harmful content," she said in a statement.

Content Forum, a self-regulatory content industry body, said "bad actors" have been exploiting social media to rapidly spread "divisive and damaging" content.

"We are deeply concerned by the rise of content designed to provoke outrage or entice engagement through sensationalism, often at the expense of civility and decency, with potential spillover effects into real-life consequences and harm."

She said people must exercise discernment when using social media, including refraining from sharing, reposting on engaging in hateful and offensive content.

This can help mitigate the reach of harmful content and minimise the amplification of such narratives.

"When encountering content that is clearly provocative, racist, sexist, or otherwise offensive,

users can recognise it as an attempt to provoke negative discourse and opt not to engage with it."

She said social media users can do their part by reporting content that violates a social media platform's community guidelines

In cases where the content constitutes a criminal offense or poses a threat to public

safety, users should lodge reports with the authorities.

"By taking swift and decisive action, we can collectively contribute to creating a safer and more conducive digital environment."

In recent weeks, various parties and government officials have voiced concern over narratives surrounding the socks controversy. - NST