Recently I became the victim of online attackers. Then the arrest of a School teacher happened. As a Administrator and Moderator on many Facebook Groups, I see it every day, how lives and reputations can easily be destroyed with a few keystrokes.
Now, I only stood up to a couple of online bullies, this man, this teacher, look at it this way, wether he is found guilty or not guilty, his life is ruined and we all know it. If this had happened 20 years ago and he was found not guilty, it would take a while and he might have to move away, but he could probably recover. TODAY? with social media and people being trolls and keyboard warriors, what chance does he have? He's all ready guilty in the courts of public opinion. You know every post about this has generated all kinds of comments and in most people's eyes, he is guilty. The child: it's a small town and the name of the family will be known by most in days...people talk and drama is always right behind the gossip. Now you have 2 lives ruined before it ever heads to court. The families? The entire town will be effected. Elementary school children are about to be questioned and have sonething explained to them that they probably won't understand. The fact that he is a school teacher is going to add fule to the fire that has all ready been lit. My point? Social media went from being a tool and helpful place to stay in touch with people and a way to reach out, to being the judge and jury of everyone and their actions. Proof is no longer needed tonprove guilt or innocence, members of social media have all ready handed down their verdict. Then you will have those that truly believe in this mans innocence. Those people won't stand a chance against those online who feel he is guilty. The posts and comments are getting so bad, we are having to shut commenting down on a few posts. You don't have to be on social media to be one of its victims either. Pages like The Turtle Boy make a living by posting articles about local alleged criminals or people they see as despicable, encouraging their readers to "investigate" and gather screen shots of those they feel should be blasted. While I don't follow Turtle anymore, I've heard it's still up and running. Talk to some of the people who have had their lives ruined by social media groups like The Turtle. It isn't fun nor is it easy to regain respect and your reputation once you've been attacked on Social media.
What do you think? Have you ever been a victim of a social media attack? We want to know what you think and of any experiences you have had.