I want to bring to your attention a critical issue that can permanently affect your future—your online activities. This is a serious warning to all content creators, social media users, commentators, and even job seekers. Your digital footprint is being monitored, and it can either make or break your future.
A TikTok video by the Gen X Philosopher highlights how major companies conduct background checks on potential employees before hiring them. This doesn’t just apply to jobs; even visa applications undergo similar scrutiny. Every comment you post on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok is being analysed. Some companies even hire specialists to investigate an applicant’s online behaviour before offering them employment or granting them a visa.
The Reality of Online Surveillance
There is now an application that allows people to retrieve WhatsApp conversations just by typing in a number. While WhatsApp is said to be encrypted, technology has evolved to the point where nothing is truly private anymore. Everywhere you go, cameras are watching.
I recently visited an embassy, and the first thing they did was capture my face. They measured the distance between my ears, the shape of my nose, and other unique identifiers. They also took my fingerprints. According to experts, they can analyse even the smallest details, such as the number of hairs on a person’s forehead. If I attempt to cover my face, they can still identify me through voice recognition. This level of monitoring means that everyone is under constant watch, whether they know it or not.
The Dangers of Reckless Social Media Use
Many people, especially young individuals, are damaging their futures by posting inappropriate content online. Some girls post videos where they simulate embarrassing actions, not realizing that these videos can come back to haunt them years later. Employers, embassies, and even potential spouses now conduct thorough background checks to see what kind of content individuals have engaged with online.
Some people apply for jobs and visas only to be rejected because of their past behaviour on social media. A former Special Assistant to a governor applied for a visa and was denied because he was labelled a “thug.” Similarly, a woman lost out on a high-paying job (ranging from $50,000 to $660,000 per year) because AI technology identified her in a crowd during a protest where she made anti-Semitic remarks. Tragically, the company she applied to was owned by Jewish people. One careless comment or action can ruin a lifetime of opportunities.
Social Media Is Not a Playground
If you think nobody is watching, think again. Some people apply for jobs and wonder why they don’t get callbacks, not realizing that their reckless online behavior is the reason. The world is becoming more security-conscious, and those who fail to recognize this will face serious consequences.
To young people and content creators: be careful. Be mindful of what you post. Be cautious of the comments you leave on people’s pages. Your words and actions are being recorded, and they could be used against you in the future.
A word is enough for the wise.
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Stay wise. Stay vigilant. God bless you.
