At a time when social media platforms have become major news sources, knowing how to distinguish fact from fiction is more essential than ever. — AFP Relaxnews
"Boomer traps” are invading social networks to capture the attention of users less familiar with the numerous ins and outs of web language and memes and other subtleties on the Internet, often senior citizens.
The term "boomer traps" refers to posts deliberately designed to mislead or manipulate these Internet users, who are less at ease with digital culture, regardless of their age.
These "traps” take a variety of forms, such as posts featuring fake or AI-generated photos, sensationalist claims or videos relaying fake news. These can range from a dolphin allegedly spotted in an urban river setting to a fake contest promising huge prizes in exchange for a simple "like” or share.
The problem is that the algorithm of social media platforms, notably Facebook, means that someone who interacts by liking, sharing or commenting on one of these posts will receive more and more posts on the same theme on their news feed. By playing on people's credulity, the actors behind these publications then take advantage of the opportunity to spread fake news or hate speech that can fuel social tensions.
Other miscreants even take advantage of the opportunity to spread scams, with links to fraudulent sites designed to steal the personal data of the most gullible Internet users.
To avoid falling prey to such traps, boomers and non-boomers alike are advised to identify the source, i.e. the account responsible for creating and distributing these dubious posts. It's also important to get some perspective on what you're seeing and be wary of ads that promise something that seems too good to be true.
Finally, it's important to know how to spot an AI-generated photo or video. If in doubt, ask a more experienced web user, to avoid being fooled and becoming an easy target of manipulation.
At a time when social media platforms have become major news sources, knowing how to distinguish fact from fiction is more essential than ever. – AFP Relaxnews
