In the digital age, social media has revolutionized the way we communicate and connect. From sharing everyday moments to hosting vibrant livestream sessions, the virtual space has become an inseparable part of modern life. But beneath the glittering surface lies a darker reality. Social media is not just a place for connection; in the wrong hands, it can turn into a weapon for personal attacks, defamation, and the spread of misinformation.

Today on Words on the Street, we delve into real-world cases, analyze the consequences of online "smear campaigns," and explore solutions for returning social media to its original purpose: fostering positivity and meaningful connections.

A striking recent case involves two sisters from Hanoi's Thanh Xuan District - Hoang Phuong Anh and Hoang Mai Anh. A family conflict escalated into an online feud when they turned Facebook into a "virtual courtroom" to publicly expose their cousin's private life. A single livestream filled with disparaging remarks and personal secrets ignited public outrage against the victim and urged viewers to ostracize the person.

What's alarming is the calculated nature of their actions. While Phuong Anh spearheaded the livestream, Mai Anh actively supported it by providing images and information, making the attack methodical and far-reaching. Such behavior not only inflicted severe emotional damage, but also set a dangerous precedent where individuals on social media feel empowered to judge and condemn based on biased narratives.

The trend isn't limited to individuals. Even celebrities and major brands have found themselves in the crosshairs. Consider livestreamers Xoai Non and "O Huyen Sau Rieng", a fruit brand ambassador, who both faced public backlash for offhand comments made during livestreams. A single offhand remark can turn into a full-blown PR crisis, damaging reputations and sparking mass boycotts that put businesses at risk.

The consequences of spreading negativity and misinformation online extend far beyond individual pain. They ripple through economic, social, and even cultural spheres, eroding trust across entire communities.

A study by Nielsen IQ Vietnam shows that Vietnamese users spend an average of 13 hours per week watching livestream shopping sessions. While this provides tremendous exposure for businesses, it's also a double-edged sword. A single mishap, a poorly chosen word, or an unverified claim can result in significant financial and reputational losses.

Take the financial market, for example. False rumors have wiped billions of dong off Vietnam's stock markets. Similarly, online groups such as "Checkpoint 141 Alerts" or "Alcohol Checkpoint Bypass" undermine public safety efforts, hamper law enforcement, and endanger lives. As Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang has warned, unchecked misinformation can incite deviant behavior and undermine national solidarity.

Why are people so vulnerable on social media?

Why does the online space so readily become a breeding ground for negativity? There are several reasons.

First, hidden behind screen names and avatars, people feel emboldened to lash out without fear of repercussions.

Second, the herd instinct drives people to join in and amplify gossip and misinformation until it gets out of control.

Third, many users remain unaware that online actions can have real-world legal consequences, from defamation lawsuits to criminal charges.

So how do we ensure that social media becomes a source of positivity rather than a battleground?

Tougher penalties for defamation and online harassment should be enforced. Higher fines or even criminal charges in serious cases can serve as an effective deterrent.

More precise legal guidelines for quantifying and addressing online harm will make enforcement fairer and more transparent.

The long-term solution is to educate users. People need to realize that every online comment and action can lead to real-world consequences. Developing habits like fact-checking before sharing and thinking twice before posting are critical steps.

For businesses, investing in professional training for staff and partnering with well-vetted influencers is essential. Livestreams should be engaging yet respectful and held to high standards of accountability.

Instead of relying on government action, social media giants like Facebook and YouTube must act now to control harmful information. AI-powered solutions can be used to identify and resolve violations quickly and efficiently.

Flame or burn scar?

Social media is a mixed blessing. While it offers unparalleled opportunities to connect and grow, it also poses risks that can undermine trust, reputation and social harmony. Addressing these challenges requires not only strong government policies, but also a collective shift in user attitudes.

Will social media be a guiding light or an unhealed wound? The answer lies in how we use it. Let us be mindful users who verify information, weigh our words carefully, and contribute to a safer, more respectful online space where everyone feels valued and safe.

A friend of mine, a lawyer, recently shared a story about settling a dispute between two businesswomen. Both sides, frustrated with negotiations, took to Facebook to air their grievances, hoping for public sympathy.

As someone close to both parties, my friend found the task of mediation particularly challenging. The damage had already been done; once a conflict goes public, every detail becomes fodder for online spectators. Regardless of who was right or wrong, both parties had to endure the relentless judgment of netizens, and in some ways, no one really "won".

This incident serves as a reminder: words online leave a lasting imprint. In the court of social media, everyone is a jury, and no one is truly immune from the blows of public scrutiny. Let's pick our battles wisely and remember that behind every post is a person, a story, and a world that extends far beyond the digital screen.