Many people seem to be moving away from Facebook almost every day. Aside from its recent scandals, privacy concerns, and general feeling that it has become too big and intrusive, it is understandable why people are looking for other social media platforms. There have been plenty of scandals surrounding Facebook over the last few years, ranging from Cambridge Analytica to the data mining that occurred with Russian actors during the 2016 presidential election. Recent years have also seen Facebook face a lot of criticism for its perceived lack of privacy, with users feeling that their personal information is being misused without their permission. However, people aren’t just leaving Facebook because of its scandals. Despite the massive user base and the ever-increasing list of features, Facebook’s become too big and too intrusive, so it’s easy to get lost in the noise and overwhelmed by its content.
The proliferation of fake news is another factor driving people away from Facebook. Having an algorithm that prioritizes content based on popularity makes it easy for false information to spread rapidly and to get to users. And with so much political content and so many ways to target specific users with ads, it’s easy to see how this could pose a problem. Facebook has also become a bit too commercialized, in addition to all of these issues. As the platform’s ads and sponsored posts continue to grow, it’s hard to escape the impression that it’s more focused on making money than connecting people. The result of these issues is that a growing number of people are moving to other social media platforms. Platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat have been gaining in popularity, as they offer a more visual experience and are less cluttered than Facebook.
Furthermore, newer social media platforms are gaining traction as well. Ello, Vero, and Peach, for example, allow users to connect in a more intimate and private setting with people that they know. In addition to these options, those who are seeking a professional experience also have some options. There is no denying that LinkedIn and Xing offer opportunities for networking and professional development while also providing a safer environment for users. Overall, it is clear that people are starting to switch away from Facebook.
