Privacy Invaded: The Societal Cost of Data Breaches by Careless Social Media Users

Privacy Invaded: The Societal Cost of Data Breaches by Careless Social Media Users

For many Malaysians, social media feels like a harmless daily routine. We scroll while having teh tarik, share photos from a family kenduri, check messages during lunch, and post updates without thinking twice. But behind this casual habit lies a growing problem we rarely talk about seriously: how careless social media use is quietly invading our privacy—and costing society more than we realise.

Every time we overshare online, we leave behind digital breadcrumbs. A photo of your new house, a birthday post showing your full date of birth, a “throwback” revealing your school name—these may seem innocent, but together they form a detailed personal profile. 

Cybercriminals don’t need to hack complex systems when users willingly provide the information for free. In Malaysia, many scam cases begin not with advanced technology, but with simple social media stalking.

When personal data leaks, the impact goes far beyond the individual. A compromised account can be used to scam friends and family, spread fake investment schemes, or impersonate victims to apply for loans. One careless click or weak password can ripple through entire communities. We have seen WhatsApp groups flooded with scam links and Facebook accounts hijacked to ask for emergency money—often using familiar names and faces to gain trust.

The emotional toll is heavy too. Victims feel embarrassed, violated, and blamed for something they never expected. Trust erodes—not just in platforms, but among people. Friends become suspicious. Messages are doubted. Society becomes more guarded, less open.

Part of the problem is mindset. Many users assume, “I’m not important, who would want my data?” But in today’s digital economy, everyone’s data has value. Your phone number, location habits, and contact list are commodities. Social media platforms also play a role by prioritising engagement over safety, but users cannot outsource responsibility entirely.

Protecting privacy does not require becoming paranoid or quitting social media. It starts with small, practical habits: setting profiles to private, thinking twice before sharing personal details, using strong passwords, and being sceptical of links—even when they come from familiar accounts.

In a connected society like Malaysia, privacy is no longer a personal issue—it is a collective one. When one account is breached, many are affected. Being more careful online is not just about protecting yourself; it is about protecting the people around you.