Egyptian cyber security expert Dr. Mohamed El-Gendy has raised concerns about the deep-seated risks associated with the algorithms used by digital platforms to track users and create "digital bubbles" of knowledge. He notes that the precise tracking of personal data is no longer solely aimed at improving services, but is also used to isolate individuals, influence their behavior, and weaken their critical thinking abilities.
Dr. El-Gendy explains that smartphones collect detailed analyses and comprehensive statistics about users' lives to ensure direct and effective targeting. This data includes not only traditional information such as age, education, and interests but also daily habits like sleep and wake-up times, and the nature of meals. He cites the example of sensors that enable phones to know when users are on a plane or when they put the phone on their face, reflecting an unprecedented level of privacy invasion.
The expert highlights the consequences of this targeted approach, emphasizing that it confines young people within "digital bubbles" that isolate them from reality and impose a specific type of content. He points to the tactic of continuous scrolling, which keeps users captive to the presented content and prevents them from stopping to verify the accuracy of the information, thereby facilitating the spread of lies.
Dr. El-Gendy references the spread of fabricated and misleading video clips promoted by biased channels claiming false events occurred, where digital bubbles were exploited to convince followers of the claims' accuracy without scrutiny. He warns about the absence of critical thinking tools among new generations, highlighting the widening knowledge gap between experts and young people.
The expert stresses that while older adults and experts possess the necessary tools to distinguish between fake and real clips, young people fall prey to misinformation due to their lack of intellectual research and verification habits. He notes that biased campaigns rely on presenting "half-truths" and omitting contexts to push their agendas, exploiting the absolute submission to all content displayed on smartphones.
Dr. El-Gendy emphasizes that confronting these risks requires activating "critical thinking" among individuals and escaping the isolation of digital bubbles by relying on diverse knowledge and trusted official sources to protect national awareness. He urges individuals to be cautious and vigilant in the face of the pervasive influence of algorithms.
The issue has sparked concerns about the impact of digital technologies on society, with many calling for greater awareness and education about the potential risks and consequences of digital bubbles and the loss of critical thinking.
Key points
- Dr. Mohamed El-Gendy warns of the risks associated with digital bubbles and loss of critical thinking.
- The expert emphasizes the need for critical thinking and diverse knowledge to protect national awareness.
- The issue has sparked concerns about the impact of digital technologies on society.
