The effect of digital disappearance
The idea that ‘everything that exists on the Internet is kept forever’ is in crisis. In recent years, an alarming percentage of websites has disappeared, leaving users with a sense of loss. A report from the Pew Research Center reveals that almost 40% of websites have ceased their activity in just ten years.
Causes of digital decay
Several factors contribute to the disappearance of online content. In addition to the technical failures and the obsolescence of the systems, the changes in the policies of use and the simple removal of data by the users also play a crucial role. César Córcoles, a professor at the UOC, emphasizes that even the escape of users of platforms like Twitter, who choose to erase their tweets, is an example of this decay.
Impact on our story
Digital content loss is not just a technical matter; It has deep impact on our understanding of history and journalism. Silvia Martínez, a UOC professor, warns that the lack of accessible archives can alter our vision of past events, with examples such as the modification of information on advisers.
The dilemma of the right to oblivion
The disappearance of data can result in a distorted view of reality. Mònica Vilasau, an expert in digital law, says that although there is the right to rectification to correct errors, the loss of content can complicate this process. The situation becomes more complicated when we consider the balance between the right to information and privacy.
Preservation of digital heritage
Initiatives like Internet Archive work to preserve digital information, but exponential data growth makes this task more difficult. Córcoles emphasizes the importance of libraries and archives in the conservation of our digital memory.
The risks of digital dependence
The use of private platforms for the publication of content can amplify the problem of digital decay. The Pew Research emphasizes that 20% of Tweets disappear in a few months, often due to private or eliminated accounts. These circumstances jeopardize the survival of information.
The danger of selective digital memory
As the content disappears, we face the risk of a ‘selective digital memory’, where only certain materials are preserved while others are lost. Martinez warns that our collective understanding can be affected if access to relevant information is not guaranteed.
The need for awareness
Córcoles concludes that it is urgent to take action to preserve digital memory. Institutions and society must be proactive in the protection of our digital heritage to prevent knowledge from being faded.