Know your surroundings.

If you knew a neighborhood was infamous for people being captured and robbed, you would be more careful when walking there, especially late at night.

Social media platforms warrant the same caution. If you’re just mindlessly strolling, aimlessly scrolling, you are vulnerable. The only difference is that your attention gets captured as you are robbed of your time.

The system preys on naive nervous systems, luring their perception. The blue lighting that lightly squeezes the pineal gland. The flash of a red notification icon that triggers a dopamine download. The countdown for the next video in 10 sec…9..8..7.. creates tension and a low-grade FOMO.

Almost irresistible.

These places can be worth visiting. Just realize the tourist traps and keep your wits about you.