If the digital era has taught us anything, it is that under an anonymous profile, everybody is brave. Where sometimes proximity is mistaken for true connection, the actual boundaries between someone’s “freedom of speech” and someone else’s right to peace have become dangerously thin.
Two-time Olympic gold medalistChloe Kim has been the latest athlete to have a bad experience in this regard, as she had to shut down her direct messages after receiving many unwanted and harassing content. The decision was simple, she could no longer allow the hidden profiles to dictate her mental well-being.
A disturbing digital reality
Chloe Kim has long been celebrated for her transparency and deep connection with her fanbase. However, that way of dealing with her following has opened the door to a wave of “fake and very disturbing images and videos,” forcing the athlete to take a defensive stance on the matter.
In an emotional Instagram Story, Kim detailed the necessity of the change:
“I unfortunately had to turn off my DMs due to people taking things too far. I’ve seen too many fake and very disturbing images/videos and I need to protect myself. Hopefully with some time we’ll be back! I really do enjoy connecting with you all. Much love
The reference to “fake” images has sparked particular concern among fans, as the rise of AI-generated “deepfake” content continues to target high-profile women (and sometimes not as high-profile…). There is a big problem with this.
The dark side of engaging with followers
Her decision comes at a time when her personal life has never been more visible. Her relationship with Myles Garrett has become a focal point for both NFL and Olympic fans. Garrett, the Browns’ dominant pass-rusher, made the trek to Italy earlier this month to support Kim as she competed as a top contender in the women’s snowboard halfpipe.
While their status has brought joy to many, it has also attracted the dark side of social media, where “bad actors” use the anonymity of the internet to harass and intimidate other users. For Kim, who has been in the public eye since she was a teenager, this new shift in her online experience has been a drastic but necessary evolution.
Hopefully she can reopen her socials as soon as possible, and hopefully we can find a way to deal with this kind of unnecessary behaviour.
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