Online Social Networks (OSNs) represent digital platforms designed to facilitate the creation and maintenance of social relations between individuals who share similar interests, activities, backgrounds, or real-life connections. These platforms enable users to communicate, share information, and engage in various forms of social interaction. A common example includes platforms that allow individuals to connect with friends, family, and colleagues, sharing updates, photos, and videos.
The significance of these networks in the digital landscape is substantial, influencing communication, information dissemination, and even social and political movements. Their widespread adoption has transformed how individuals connect and interact, providing access to a global audience and enabling rapid communication across geographical boundaries. Historically, these platforms emerged as a natural evolution of early internet forums and bulletin boards, gradually incorporating more sophisticated features and user-friendly interfaces.
