Final answer:
Widespread social media use can negatively impact society through the spread of misinformation, privacy violations, mental health issues, and the erosion of real-life social interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Widespread social media use and the resulting data collection can negatively impact our society in several ways. One negative consequence is the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms, which can lead to polarization and division within society. For example, extremist groups can use social media to attract followers and incite violence, while foreign entities can manipulate social media to influence elections. Another negative impact is the potential for privacy violations and the misuse of personal data. Social media platforms collect massive amounts of user data, which can be exploited for targeted advertising or even surveillance by governments or malicious actors. Additionally, social media can contribute to mental health issues such as cyberbullying and addiction, and it can also replace real-life social interactions, leading to a lack of meaningful connections and decreased well-being.