Information technology experts have urged internet users to recognize the risks associated with online activities and take proactive steps to mitigate them.
They noted that while social media has revolutionised communication, access to information, and global interaction, it also exposes users to significant security and privacy threats.
The experts spoke in separate interviews with journalists on Wednesday in Abuja.
Cybersecurity expert Dr. Olayinka Egbokhare identified the spread of misinformation as one of the most critical risks linked to social media.
“False information can spread like wildfire on these platforms, causing harm to individuals, communities, and society as a whole,” Egbokhare said.
“To combat this, users must be critical thinkers and verify information before sharing it. In the digital age, awareness and education are key to staying safe online.”
He emphasised that prioritising digital literacy and online safety could help build a safer and more responsible online community.
Another cybersecurity expert, Mr. Femi Akomolafe, advised internet users to review their privacy settings regularly, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication to reduce the risk of data breaches.
“Social media platforms collect vast amounts of users’ data, which can be compromised in data breaches or exploited for targeted advertising. Users must understand these data collection practices and take steps to protect their personal information,” he said.
A media expert, Mr. Adebayo Olusola, also called on internet users to be responsible digital citizens.
“The onus is on users to be discerning and avoid sharing information across platforms without proper fact-checking,” Olusola said.
Digital rights advocate Ms. Funmi Ogunshina warned that social media can serve as a breeding ground for hate speech, harassment, and cyberbullying.
“Users should set boundaries, block abusive accounts, and report incidents to platform moderators,” she advised.
“It’s also essential to prioritise offline self-care and not allow online interactions to define one’s self-worth.”
A programmer, Mr. Dan Yaji, urged internet users to engage intelligently and adopt “digital self-defence.”
“The time for passive scrolling is over; this is the time for active digital self-defence,” Yaji said.
“By viewing every interaction through the lens of risk and responsibility, users can transform themselves from passive consumers into secure and resilient digital citizens.”
He added that by staying aware of potential risks and acting responsibly, users can harness the power of social media while protecting themselves and others.
