Social media use is one of the most popular online activities and plays a massive part in our lives. From Twitter to Facebook to LinkedIn, finding someone who does not use a social media platform is impossible. According to Statista, in 2020, over 3.6 billion people were using social media worldwide. In addition, its usage is projected to increase to almost 4.41 billion in 2025. Due to its unparalleled reach and power, governments created social media laws.
Social media law is defined as a developing area of the law that includes both criminal and civil aspects. Although social media laws are evolving and changing, certain established acts define the landscape. Down below are social media laws most emphasized legal concerns.
Privacy:
One of the most significant areas of concern is how social media has depleted the right to privacy. By sharing personal information online, you may increase the risk of allowing advertisers to track you or hackers to take advantage of your data. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the information you are providing and be conscious of your choices to protect your privacy. Take the time to read over how the social network will collect and use information about users who visit their site.
Intellectual Property
Another area of concern is intellectual property rights. Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. With many businesses on social media, problems arise when another takes copyrighted works and re-uses them without permission.
Contests
Social media contests have become a popular trend among organizations trying to build awareness of their brand. Sponsoring promotional campaigns requires the inclusion of legal regulations and restrictions that cannot be overlooked. Many states prohibit certain raffles; others require that giveaways involve games of knowledge, and others may require a gambling license.
Lawmakers continue making efforts to keep up with the ever-rising presence of social media in our lives and business relationships by enacting new laws and regulations. That is why as business owners or professionals, it is vital we understand these laws and work towards a safer use of social media.