INTERNET HAS ELEPHANT MEMORY
Teenage years are a time of discovering, dreams, growth- Every decision matters. Teenagers begin to experience independence, make choices that shape their future. It could include skipping classes, ignoring academics. Sharing something inappropriate online or blindly trusting someone. They may feel harmless but slowly it affects their academics. self- esteem and mental-health. One poor decision made without thinking like cheating in exams, bullying other fellow beings can damage reputation and create guilt that may last lifelong.
In today’s fast paced digital world what they don’t realize is that one wrong decision, that is made in one second can take years to recover. Learning from the mistakes made is part of growing up- what is important is to protect one’s future. The thing one should understand is that the decisions should be taken for one’s own good- choose wisely even when no one is watching you because your future depends on your choices.
Social media is a major distraction while it offers entertainment, communication and connection. The decisions teenagers make online carry serious consequences. They don’t realize digital footprints are a trail of information that a person leaves behind when they use internet including posts chats, comments and even deleted content.
A single inappropriate photo, offensive comment, bullying damage their personal reputation and credibility. What teens post can change how others see them.
A bad choice online today can cost a scholarship or a job tomorrow.
Many colleges and companies now check applicant’s social media.
Sharing personal information online is risky too, not realizing that they are opening a can of worms, and their phone is the mirror reflecting them. Everything on social media is like a tattoo on the internet skin.
The future of the nation is exploited by distraction as the youth are not thinking about the consequences that are caused by leaving digital footprints. You should think before you leap.
Under laws like POCSO ACT even forwarding an inappropriate content involving minors can be a criminal offense. They must learn digital responsibility - the of use of social media with awareness, Kindness and caution, think before pasting, protecting personal information and respect others because the internet never forgets but reflects. It is like a double-edged sword - helpful and harmful. We should utilize the freedom given to us in a proper way. Awareness is the first step of action. The thing that every teen should understand is that we should choose wisely even if we are not under observation else It will be us, ourselves who will be affected with severe consequences.
