- As is the case with any cutting-edge technology making its formidable presence felt, the revolutionary evolution of information technology and its related services have taken the universe by storm. The ubiquitousness of internet services including the emergence of social media platforms is not only a welcome game changer for the global community but also has become so inclusive in our daily lives that we just cannot imagine leading a day without the instrument/services’ overbearing presence. Right from young minds to old aged people, all of us are plugged onto the internet universe in one or the other form.
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- Such is dynamic; everything is now accessible with the simple swipe of a touchscreen, making the world of technological pleasures increasingly necessary for the majority of us. Of course, we are aware of the power social media platforms have over people in practically every aspect of our everyday lives. From the sharing of information—some true, most false—to the countless forwards, messages, images, videos, pieces of advice, and fast DIY projects, it is, in a word, infinite. There is currently a new trend that is quickly catching on in everyone’s imagination.
- It’s described as India’s influencer economy, i.e., the business of using social media as a marketing and advisory tool. As reported, it is expected to host a mind-boggling 100 million influencers by the end of 2023. Needless to mention, its impact is felt everywhere, from small towns to supercities. Nothing is spared, you see. As an adverse consequence, it also has a distinct Wild Wild West feel, as anyone can set up any hustle without any conceivable restrictions in the absence of regulations. As you are aware, a recent controversy about a viral video of a chocolate drink has focused attention on the health and wellness space, where doctors without degrees’ can do particular harm.
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- Many people are open-minded, but they could be quickly convinced otherwise by unfounded claims that emanate from the murky corners of social networking sites. Regrettably, even in the organized sector, there is a major lack of quality control, as seen by WHO and others. The influencers, however, completely conceal their quack medicine. Uncomfortably, the Advertising Standards Council of India’s survey from February revealed that 79% of respondents trusted social media influencers. The implications for your health are concerning when you translate this. If back pain is being treated by an online specialist but gets worse, a physiotherapist could be able to help.
- Yet, some fitness influencers market anabolic steroids, while others promote bogus medications for diabetes and even cancer. It’s difficult terrain. For instance, there is a severe lack of professionals in the field of mental health. Thus, managing an anxiety attack with the assistance of a kind stranger online who instructs one in deep breathing would be appropriate. The real issue could sometimes go unidentified and untreated. The key players in health and wellness require a measured, light-handed regulatory approach. The first step is for the Union Government to establish a policy outlining dos and don’ts as well as a requirement that credentials be exhibited. Detailed policy instructions must be created to remove the fraud threat.
