Social media has changed our lives in many ways – some good, some bad, and some right in between. It’s happened so quickly that many of us may be overlooking the effects of social media on crime. Some of these changes are apparent, while others are not. Let’s take a look at some of the ways social media has changed how we live today in regard to crime and safety awareness.
The Effects of Social Media on Crime: The Good
Perhaps the greatest benefit of social media is its ability to reach people of all ages in every state and country. Because this is true, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and many other social media sites can be allies to local police departments. Police departments can quickly inform the public about an urgent matter, such as an escaped prisoner or Amber Alert, with posts on their social media pages. In fact, police departments often post surveillance video photos of, for example, bank robbery suspects. Within minutes, the public has responded to identify the person in the photo.
In addition to capturing the suspect, the speed with which social media allows it to happen has its own benefits. Catching a suspect sooner could mean the possible prevention of subsequent crimes.
Additional effects of social media on crime include increased awareness of crime rates and specific occurrences, as well as shedding light on a crime that many people may not have known existed. The more knowledge people have about crimes that may occur, the more capable they are of educating and protecting themselves in the face of each particular crime.
Furthermore, social media has created more equality among communities. Rather than a news station telling viewers about crimes and possibly making some cities appear more violent than others, social media levels the playing field regarding the knowledge that is disseminated.
On the Other Side
There’s no doubt that social media has had many negative effects on crime. Fraud and identity theft may be aided by information that is posted on social media, for example. There also have been many incidents of people committing or recording videos of crimes to post online for money or attention. Another negative effect is the sharing of incorrect information, sometimes causing unnecessary fear and confusion.
Most importantly, social media has increased bullying and even created a new category. Children and teens have been bullied for virtually all time, but many years ago, they could go home after school for several hours of reprieve. Today, cyberbullying makes some people targets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, possibly resulting in higher incidents of suicide. In some cases, the perpetrators have been charged with crimes when the victims have harmed themselves as a result of being bullied.
If you or someone you know is a victim of bullying, you can get help through the Stop Bullying website. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255.
Contact Us for Assistance
Education and awareness through collaboration and communication can help us make the best use of social media and its effects on crime. If the result is negative, get help. If it’s good, share it.
For assistance in getting someone out of jail, contact us through our Detroit Bail Bonds website or by phone at 1-313-224-0669. See our blog page for more information about the bail bond and court processes.
Tags: bail bonds, Bullying, Crime Rates, Social Media and Crime