Dear Facebook Group Administrators and Members,
I am penning this open letter, which I am sharing on only here on the Raymond, New Hampshire Residents group, to address a matter of growing concern. As this is a private group, Facebook's policies prevent direct sharing of this post. However, I encourage you to share this link in any other local groups you are part of.
I am aware that this message may come across as boastful or arrogant, but I assure you, it is not my intention. I am writing this out of necessity, not choice.
My journey in the online world began before the term "online" was commonplace, and possibly even before some of you were born. Since 1983, I have been involved in online community building and administration, a part of my professional life in education. I am confident that my experience in online administration surpasses most.
If you've been in this field as long as I have, you'll likely resonate with my observations. If you're relatively new to forum administration, please don't take my words as a personal critique.
You may have noticed an increase in fake accounts attempting to join your group, a surge in scams being posted, and a rise in the number of posts and users you've had to deny or ban. If these trends have escaped your notice, it's crucial to understand that you may be inadvertently doing a disservice to your users.
Starting a Facebook page or group is easy, but managing it becomes increasingly challenging as the content grows. This increased responsibility includes protecting your members from scammers and ensuring their online safety.
Regrettably, I've found that individuals and scams I've banned from our group are still active in other local groups. As administrators, we are the first line of defense for our users, many of whom lack the necessary online survival skills.
It's our duty to stay abreast of technological advancements and scammer tactics. If you're wondering why scams have become more prevalent, the answer lies in two letters: AI.
An old Arab proverb states:
He who knows not, and knows not he knows not, is a fool—shun him;
he who knows not, and knows he knows not, he is simple—teach him;
he who knows, and knows not he knows, he is asleep—wake him;
he who knows, and knows he knows, he is wise—follow him.
In the context of Facebook administration, consider which description fits you best. If you believe you're fully informed about AI, you may need to revisit the first line. Artificial intelligence has empowered internet scammers in the same way email once did for Nigerian Princes. If this analogy confuses you, it's time to enhance your skills.
Over the past week, I've created numerous screen capture videos documenting my moderation activities on Raymond, New Hampshire Residents. Before investing time in editing these into a formal presentation, I want to gauge if it would be beneficial.
I propose a series of Zoom conferences with Facebook administrators from Raymond and nearby towns. While I bring considerable experience to the table, I am certain there is much I can learn from you. As a lifelong learner, I am acutely aware that the more I learn, the more I realize there is yet to know. I am eager to collaborate with you for the betterment of our community.
If you're interested, please send me a Facebook PM expressing your interest. If we're not already connected on Facebook, include the name of the group you administer, as I will need to verify your identity before responding and granting Messenger access.
Remember, a great leader doesn't say, "Follow me." Instead, they say, "Show me where you want to go, and I will help you get there." I don't seek followers, but I believe we can navigate this journey together.
Art Wolinsky
Co-admin, Raymond, New Hampshire Residents
