Social networks host a mix of fake accounts, bots, and trolls who seek to spark discussions and stoke conflict across platforms. Major networks estimate that a portion of their monthly active users are not real. For instance, industry estimates suggest millions of fake profiles exist on popular networks, including platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which can threaten the safety of younger users online.
A fake account often arises from a desire to conceal identity, but anonymous profiles frequently harbor harmful intentions. Experts warn that a broad range of crimes are committed under the guise of fake profiles, including spam, scams, and the theft of money or personal information. In many cases such accounts are used to criticize, insult, threaten, harass, or manipulate conversations, sometimes to drive a smear campaign or impersonate someone else.
The impact of technology on adolescents has been studied by UNICEF, which highlights relationships, risks, and opportunities in the digital age. Among the findings, a large majority of young people are on at least one social network. Some survey respondents report receiving inappropriate or adult solicitations, and communications of a sexual nature. Other research shows increased concerns about online pedophile scams and the trust-building behavior of adults toward young people. Reports also indicate a notable level of cyberbullying targeting girls and adolescents.
how to behave
Educators and families are urged to actively guide minors and provide a framework for safe online use. Recognizing that technology is deeply integrated into daily life for friendships, learning, and future work, efforts are needed to help young people navigate digital spaces thoughtfully. The goal is to cultivate critical digital literacy so that information found online can be evaluated with discernment and care.
Experts emphasize that digital literacy goes beyond basic technical skills. Understanding the broader digital world and its ethics is essential. A useful analogy is that digital skills are like a calculator for computing abilities, but stronger judgment and skepticism are required when interpreting information online. A proactive approach to digital education helps prepare the next generation to responsibly manage online presence and influence.
There are practical criteria to assess whether a profile might be fake, including whether a profile photo seems misaligned with the person it purports to represent, inconsistencies between followers and followed accounts, the frequency and type of posts, and the account creation date, which can be telling if it aligns with a smear campaign or coordinated activity.
There are also tools to help verify the credibility of a profile, such as performing a reverse image search to check if the image is associated with someone else, or using available online applications designed for profile verification. If a fake profile is detected, actions depend on how the profile is interacting with the user. If harassment is involved, the advised steps are to block the profile and report it to the platform and, if necessary, to the appropriate authorities. It is acknowledged that removing harassment entirely is challenging, as new fake profiles can be created quickly to continue the behavior.
Even with built-in safeguards, social networks face ongoing challenges in detecting and removing fake profiles. The sheer volume and the use of evolving AI-assisted tactics by bad actors complicate the efforts to clean up networks and protect users.
Risks for minors
UNICEF’s research on youth technology usage notes that a very high percentage of students have mobile internet access and stay connected daily. A substantial portion use the internet for extended periods on weekends, with many going online late at night. The report highlights risks such as cyberbullying, contact with strangers, discrimination, blackmail, and pressure to share private information.