The weaponisation of the Internet

Technology empowers society. It takes us to new levels of knowledge, but its challenges represent uncharted waters. We no longer have to wait for generative AI tools to destroy the rest of the information experience in which we live. Our information landscape is becoming increasingly contaminated and vulnerable.

Machinery and expertise have changed global communication, but they have also made it possible to cause massive destruction. From atomic bombs to the use of killing drones and other lethal armaments, technology is a double-edged sword.

It is because of scientific advancements that men went to the moon; and space tourism is about to become a reality. The innovations seem to have stemmed from science fiction. The majority of it enhanced people's lives, changed business practices, and inspired a stream of developments. The list can go on and on, even taking us as far back as the 1800s regarding solar power production, fiber optics, and other technological experiences.

The emergence of recent evolutions such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and immersive and interactive experiences tends to come with positive or destructive user’ approaches.

The Internet, one of the best innovations in communication and technology, can go viral with fake news, disinformation, misinformation and straight fabrication of information. False connections, where links have nothing to do with the content shown, are constant. And, thanks to artificial intelligence, spam has become more personalised, sophisticated and invasive than ever before.

We’re facing a digital landscape filled with junk content. Information seems to have been manipulated or created by profit-driven algorithms. Not all material on the Internet, including mainstream media, is accurate, even if it comes from a reliable source! Sure, conspiracy theories have existed for nearly two centuries; however, the difference between then and today is that conspiracy theories, or harassment, can reach millions of people in a matter of seconds, destroying lives and reputations.

I have studied, taught and researched over and again that the best way to address a polluted media environment is to educate people about media literacy. However, I have noticed that even educated people actively disseminate disinformation and rumours. More recently, respected media professionals have been influencing harmful public conversations.

Despite all the beauty of technological inventions, social transformations have also orbited around evil causes. And, so, humans are developing and embracing high levels of the ugly side of the new tools: the misuse of the Internet.

People bring to digital media their identities, beliefs and assumptions, which are especially obvious on social platforms. Brothers and sisters have turned against each other, and through coordinated action, people have forced a shift in public opinion and institutional practices.

Though the digital revolution has been offering unparalleled conveniences, it is difficult to comprehend the weaponisation of the Internet and social media. It is not a digital nuclear bomb (yet), but the destruction can be far-reaching; it is like a modern drug causing mental numbness and unpredicted consequences.

While we appreciate the advancement of communication tools, we have to shift our attention from motivation to consequences. There is a need to look into the association between technology and society, since we are witnessing an entire generation obsessed with mindless entertainment and trivial connections. People are commodifying themselves on the Internet. Vanity, attention-seeking, narcissistic behaviour and a culture of consumerism are established in society.

People are deliberately polluting the information system. The over-saturated digital space is making it difficult to find relevant and reliable information. Perhaps there is a need to look into the political and economic factors that have shaped it. The weaponisation of the Internet and social platforms can cause serious consequences - and it doesn’t look good! Our interactions with information will become more complex. There is no going back; we need to negotiate our relationships with technology and communication.