The Use Of Social Networks In South Africa

By Cornelia White


Social networks provide a platform for people all over the world to communicate easily, share ideas, images, and meet new people among many other things. The users of social networks in South Africa have increased tremendously over the couple of years. This can be attributed to the fact that many people are becoming internet savvy and they want to keep up with the current development in technology.

There are numerous social media in South Africa where people communicate. Most of them are free to sign up while a few require users to pay some fee before joining the network. Using the media is very easy and it starts by one creating an account using wither an email or telephone number and creating a password to get into the account. This is just the basic requirement to join these media as each specific platform may have its specifications.

A computer connected to the internet or mobile phones are the devices through which persons access their accounts on the platforms. There are however particular platforms in SA that can only to be accessed using the mobile phone. Such only require a user to join using his phone number and is able to chat easily for free with other individuals on his phone book.

Of course these platforms accessible over the phones do require the individual to have a telephone that has certain internet software. Therefore not all phones can access the systems. There are also specific media that can only be accessed if the user has a specific mobile brand. This kind of platform is also very popular among people in South Africa.

As mentioned earlier, people share ideas, look for jobs, advertise their business over these platforms. There are specific social systems which are specifically for professionals looking for jobs and wanting to increase their professional circle. This network has gained its popularity in this country due to the fact that one can meet people in similar profession as his in another country and share ideas.

Many people have seen their business thrive due to the mere fact that they advertised their ventures over the platforms and gained a lot of customers. Therefore the ability of these media should not be undermined. There is also the fact that the platforms can be used to champion a good course and this has really changed the world.

However, there a few challenges that have come upon as a result of these platforms in South Africa. One is the fact that many people have been conned over the internet and have ended up losing money and a few their lives. This challenge can however be curbed if users tread carefully over the networks. People must avoid sharing a lot of personal information with strangers while online and avoid meeting people one does not know.

In conclusion, social networks in South Africa have really helped in opening up the country to the world. This proves the saying that the world is becoming a global village. However, safety while on the social media should not be forgotten while people share information, pictures, meet new friends, chat and help other people in need.




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