Social media was once a beacon of connectivity, entertainment, and discovery. It was a space to share moments. People could find inspiration and access authentic content. Today, however, social media feels more like a marketplace driven by profit. It is rife with scams and manipulative tactics that exploit users. These tactics fail to address users’ real needs. This shift from genuine engagement to relentless commercialization has left many questioning the value of social platforms.

The Rise of a Marketplace Culture

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have evolved into digital malls where every scroll is an opportunity to sell something. Sponsored posts, influencer promotions, and algorithm-driven ads dominate feeds, pushing products and services—many of questionable quality or legitimacy.

• Fact: Social media ad spending reached $226 billion globally in 2023, highlighting the overwhelming focus on monetization (Statista).
• Impact: This focus on sales often overshadows the original purpose of these platforms: authentic connection and entertainment.

Exploiting Desperation and Vulnerability

Amid economic uncertainty, scammers have found a goldmine in social media. These platforms have a vast reach. They offer minimal oversight. This makes it easy for bad actors to exploit people’s fears and financial struggles.

• Fake Opportunities: Get-rich-quick schemes are rampant. Fraudulent job postings deceive users. They are bombarded with promises that sound too good to be true.
• Manipulative Advertising: Ads often prey on insecurities, offering “miracle” solutions for weight loss, wealth, or personal fulfillment.
• Fact: In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission reported that 25% of all fraud cases originated from social media. These cases resulted in losses of over $1.2 billion (FTC).

The Decline of Entertainment and Authenticity

Social media’s shift toward commercialization has diminished its role as a source of entertainment and creativity. Viral videos and genuine content are increasingly overshadowed by overly polished influencer promotions and ad-driven posts.

• Entertainment Replaced by Sponsorships: Once-entertaining creators now spend more time selling products than delivering value.
• Loss of Authenticity: Algorithms reward content that generates sales or ad clicks, leading creators to prioritize trends over meaningful expression.

This shift has alienated users seeking real entertainment. It has also distanced those looking for authentic interactions. They are frustrated by the endless stream of sales pitches.

Why the Current Model is Unsustainable

The relentless push to sell products and services comes at a cost: user trust. Social media platforms are becoming synonymous with scams, fake reviews, and deceptive advertising, undermining their credibility.

• User Fatigue: Over 40% of social media users report feeling overwhelmed by ads and promotions. This finding is according to a 2023 Pew Research Center study.
• Regulatory Pressure: Governments worldwide are cracking down on deceptive advertising and fraudulent practices. They are forcing platforms to address the problem or face penalties.

A Call for Real Value

To regain user trust and relevance, social media platforms need to pivot back to their original purpose: addressing real needs. This includes:

1. Promoting Genuine Entertainment: Encouraging creators to produce authentic, engaging content that prioritizes creativity over monetization.
2. Cracking Down on Scams: Implementing stricter controls to prevent fraudulent ads and profiles.
3. Offering Real Products and Services: Rewarding businesses that provide genuine value to users rather than exploitative schemes.

Conclusion: Can Social Media Be Saved?

Social media has the potential to enrich lives, connect people, and foster creativity. But its current trajectory prioritizes profit over value, leaving users feeling exploited rather than empowered. To rebuild trust and relevance, platforms must address the growing concerns about scams, manipulation, and relentless commercialization.

The question remains: will social media evolve to meet users’ real needs? Or will it continue down a path of exploitation and decline? For now, it’s up to users to demand better and support platforms and creators who prioritize authenticity and value.