The Truth about the Age of information & How to navigate it

By: Haya Rashid

From: Ajax

The world today is full of rapidly developing technology, posing readily available information at the tips of our fingers. Due to the habitual use of technology in everyone’s lives, from our youth to our seniors, we are gaining access to branches of information beyond our comprehension. This new age is raising problems in terms of protecting user data and privacy. In the media, this era of information presents difficulties with presenting authenticity in material. So, how can we navigate through this new age of information when technology is evolving beyond human comprehension?

It comes to no surprise that recent developments in “information technology threaten privacy and have reduced the amount of control over personal data” (van den Hoven and Jeroen 1). Whether it’s browsing the internet or lingering on an ad too long, technological devices track and record all data accessed on websites. Pictures, videos, and files taken or accessed through apps are visible to the companies that produced them, and the third-party  establishments they are shared with. Oftentimes, users are not informed of the tracking and utilization of their data that occurs in this technological age. In order to stay safe and protected, it is necessary to first begin by being aware of your online presence. Without the consciousness of your own browsing history, it is difficult to gain the adequate knowledge needed to secure your privacy. Once aware and educated of the impacts your online actions have, the steps to navigating them open up. For instance, you can read and be aware of the terms and conditions certain apps require you to consent to. Furthermore, the usage of ad blockers and extensions keep your personal information safe and protected. You can keep your devices up-to-date with the latest software programs and updates as well.

Users can navigate through this age of information with the right amount of knowledge and precautions, but the world of media approaches this matter differently. “Navigating news can be incredibly hard, whether it’s determining whether videos or images of warfare [are accurate]” (Tisch 1). It is evident that news coverage sources must aim to report accurate information, whether reporting global threats, criminals, or politics. However, with the ample amounts of bias and discrimination in the media, it is difficult to recognize what sources can be trusted. An example of a tragedy that targeted Canadian Muslims due to bias in the media, was the attack against the Afzaal family in London, Ontario. Recognized as an anti-Muslim hate crime, many people, including leaders like Justin Trudeau and Jagmeet Singh, came together to realize the results of inaccurate propaganda. 

So, how can the media report accurate information to help citizens navigate their information better? To begin with, it is necessary for the media to understand the stories and information they present with a set of morals and values. Any form of corruption or dishonesty in obtaining their material can only lead to a misinformed public. Next, it is up to the citizens to find and follow up with these honest news coverage sites. Whether it’s doing further research or questioning the people in a news story, ensure that you can trust and rely on the media sites you follow. Finally, you can navigate through this era of information by finding and supporting leaders who stand up for the causes you care about.

To conclude, navigating through the age of information is a skill required by all ages equipped with technology. Everyone deserves the right to privacy and personal data. The media must navigate and report accurate and relevant information in their coverage sources. The era of information requires knowledgeable and protected associates, to ensure a flourishing future in a world heavily reliant on technology.

Sources cited:

Chaarani, James. “Muslim Family Killed in London, Ont., Attack to Be Honoured with 5 Days of Events for 1-Year Mark | CBC News.” CBCnews, CBC/Radio Canada, 11 May 2022, https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/london/afzaal-family-london-anniversary-events-1.6448702.

Daniel Tisch. Originally published on Policy Options March 8, 2022. “Navigating the Age of Information Warfare.” Policy Options, 17 Mar. 2022, https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/information-warfare-disinformation/. 

van den Hoven, Jeroen, et al. “Privacy and Information Technology.” Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Stanford University, 30 Oct. 2019, https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/it-privacy/.