The digital world creates a boundless space that allows millions of users to connect through various social media platforms. The development of technology and internet networks has further expanded accessibility for various segments of society, enabling them to expand their social networks and obtain information quickly and easily.

Social media offers freedom to its users in various aspects, such as online shopping, accessing entertainment, and seeking accurate information. However, the complexity of the digital ecosystem is not only found in the systems that manage these platforms but also in the interactions and activities of its users.

The high traffic of social media and streaming platforms has made it one of the primary needs, especially for digital native generations like Generation Z and Generation Alpha. One of the main factors that make social media so popular is the boundless freedom it offers. However, this freedom also has negative impacts, especially with the rise of anonymity in the digital world.

Anonymity is a concept that allows individuals to participate in various online activities without revealing their real identity. In some cases, anonymity serves as protection for individuals involved in sensitive investigations or discussions. Some users also use pseudonyms to avoid social consequences such as doxxing, "cancel culture," or becoming targets of cyberattacks. However, on the other hand, anonymity can be abused to engage in negative actions, including online harassment, digital bullying, and even criminal acts.

The lack of identity verification on some platforms has led to various problems, such as the prevalence of online harassment and the increased threat of predators towards minors. Some cases involving the virtual entertainment world, such as online harassment against underage viewers among Generation Z and Alpha, serve as concrete examples of the negative impacts of anonymity.

The phenomenon of anonymity in social media is closely related to the Online Disinhibition Effect—a condition where individuals display different behaviors in the virtual world compared to the real world. Anonymity on social media, combined with freedom of expression, can lead to excessive self-expression, sometimes resulting in impulsive behavior. This can also increase the level of aggression among social media users, which can be observed from the level of politeness of social media users in Indonesia.

As digital natives, everyone must be wiser in consuming content. In the 47th Webinar of Dian Nusantara University titled “The Role of Strategic Communication in Building Digital Ecosystems,” the Communication Studies Program presented two speakers:

• Dr. Indra Ardiyanto, M.I. Kom., Head of Communications and External Affairs, Great Giant Foods

• Prof. Dr. Suraya, M.Si., Head of Research, London School of Public Relations

Prof. Dr. Suraya emphasized that effective communication strategies can strengthen the digital ecosystem by increasing transparency and trust in online interactions. The utilization of good communication strategies not only helps individuals build more authentic connections but also mitigates the negative impacts of anonymity in the digital world.

Anonymity in social media has relatively complex impacts. While anonymity can provide protection in certain situations for some social media users, boundless freedom also brings significant risks, including online harassment and identity misuse. Therefore, a balance between freedom of expression and user protection is needed by implementing effective communication strategies to regulate conversations more strictly and verify digital identities.

Good communication strategies can help society manage conversations and communication through technology. Technology should be used as a tool to build optimal communication networks and provide a conducive social space. With the achievement of a conducive digital ecosystem, collaboration among communities can be created in a good, professional, and insightful manner.