Profile Piracy: Misrepresenting leaders and influencers on social media, by Yusuf Alhaji Lawan
Nowadays, profile piracy on social media platforms is rapidly growing and becoming a major concern with regards to healthy relationships among the populace. It involves using someone else’s image, usually of esteemed individuals, without their consent. This unhealthy act violates their rights and privileges as separate entities.
The disturbing trend, particularly on Facebook and WhatsApp, continue to surface, where well-intentioned individuals appropriate the images of esteemed scholars, royal fathers, influential politicians, and opinion leaders as their profile pictures. While this may be meant to signify loyalty, support, or admiration, it raises critical concerns about identity misappropriation and misrepresentation.
The respected individuals are not mere symbols, but distinct persons with their own preferences, values, and opinions. Conversely, those using their portraits as profile pictures are different people with diverse thoughts, beliefs, and interests that may not align with the original person.
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This unauthorised use of images can; misrepresent the leader’s views and values, create false associations and endorsements, undermine the individual’s personal brand and reputation and blur the lines between authenticity and impersonation. It is essential to recognise the potential harm caused by profile piracy and respect the boundaries of others’ identities.
This practice is unacceptable from the standpoint of moral etiquette, societal norms, and legal standards. If taken to an extreme, it can even spark litigation. Moreover, while supporters and well-wishers may use these images as a gesture of love and affection, adversaries can exploit this same vulnerability to; misrepresent the individual’s views or values, project them in a negative light, post harmful or misleading content or tarnish their reputation. This malicious potential underscores the importance of respecting individuals’ rights to their own image and identity.
To authentically express support or affiliation, individuals can post the leader’s picture and add a thoughtful comment expressing their opinion. This approach respects the leader’s identity while allowing individuals to; declare their allegiance, share their perspective and exercise their right to freedom of expression.
In Nigeria, impersonating individuals on social media constitutes a criminal offense under various laws. The Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, specifically prohibits impersonation, stating that anyone who “knowingly and intentionally sends a message or other matter by means of computer systems or networks that is grossly offensive, pornographic or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character” is liable to prosecution.
Furthermore, the Criminal Code Act and the Penal Code Act criminalise false personation, impersonation, and defamation. The Nigerian Copyright Commission also protects individuals’ rights to their name, image, and likeness. Victims of impersonation can seek redress through injunctions, damages, or criminal prosecution, as provided under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
A simple, yet effective solution to curb profile piracy lies in embracing personal authenticity online. Instead of using someone else’s image, individuals can upload their own personal portraits, showcasing their unique identity. Alternatively, users can choose objects, animals, or abstract designs that reflect their personality or interests. This approach; ensures ownership and control over one’s online presence, eliminates the risk of misrepresenting others, fosters creativity and self-expression and promotes digital citizenship and responsibility.
By using personal portraits or creative alternatives, individuals can safeguard their online identity and respect the boundaries of others. Collectively, we can cultivate a culture of online authenticity, protecting individuals’ rights and promoting a safer digital environment.
Profile piracy is a pervasive threat to online identity, reputation, and trust. As social media continues to shape our digital landscape, it’s imperative that we prioritise authenticity and responsibility. By understanding the risks, consequences, and legal implications of profile piracy, we can take proactive steps to protect ourselves and others.
Ultimately, preventing profile piracy requires a collective effort. Individuals must be mindful of their online presence and respect others’ boundaries. Together, we can foster a culture of digital citizenship, where online interactions are guided by empathy, integrity, and authenticity.
Yusuf Alhaji Lawan writes from Hausawa Asibiti Ward, Potiskum Yobe State. He can be reached via nasidi30@gmail.com.
Proofreading by Gift Luckson, Editor at Neptune Prime.
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