Spanish
More and more, information travels at the speed of a click. In seconds, an opinion becomes a trend, an accusation transforms into truth, and a lie can damage someone's reputation irreversibly for life. In that context, the phrase uttered by the Minister of Interior and Police, Faride Raful, resonates with force and truth: “A click does not erase what was said”.
And it's true. Once content is shared on social media—be it a manipulated video, a malicious tweet, or an image taken out of context—there's no turning back. Even if the author deletes it, the damage is done. Screenshots, reposts, viral comments... everything multiplies and persists, remaining archived in the collective memory.
The right to an opinion does not justify slander
Freedom of speech is a pillar of democracy, although in many cases it is not used in the right way, as it should not be confused with the right to slander or denigrate. Criticizing with arguments is valid; attacking with lies, no. When someone shares an unfounded accusation through the various digital platforms, without verifying its veracity, they become an accomplice to a disinformation campaign.
Raful is not the first nor will he be the last person to face a smear campaign. But his phrase calls us to reflect on a deeper problem: the ease with which many people damage the honor of others from digital anonymity, without measuring the consequences.
Responsibility and Ethics in the Digital Age
Many figures have raised their voices, expressing the attacks received through a click, although in many cases they are ignored. Today more than ever we need digital education and civic ethics. Before sharing, reacting or commenting, we must ask ourselves: Is this true? Who does it affect? Am I contributing to a conversation or feeding a lie?
For many, a click seems insignificant, but it can destroy the mental health of the affected person, to the point of culminating in suicide.
“A click doesn't erase what was said” is not just a warning, it's a call to collective consciousness. It reminds us that words have weight, that the reputation of others must be respected, and that each of us has power and, therefore, responsibility in the use of social media.
Justice will do its part. But in the meantime, every citizen must do theirs: think before sharing, verify before accusing, and remember that, behind every screen, there is a life that can be affected by our digital actions.
