Anyone can be whoever they want to be on TikTok

TikTok can be a magical place. It can serve as a source of entertainment and offer individuals a sense of community. In some cases, the social media platform can also be informative. But that last "benefit" I'll put in quotation marks for a reason.

If you have spent enough time on TikTok, you have likely come across verified accounts who claim to be experts in specific professions or subject matters. They may offer what seems like reasonable, well-meaning advice. But just because they're on video providing specific information claiming to know what they are talking about does not mean all their information is valid.

Many of these videos start with a cold open followed by a phrase like "hi, I'm [name]. I'm a [professional in a related area] and today we're going to talk about [x]." This is a very specific formula designed to gain the attention and trust of viewers. And if it's genuine, it's a helpful way to know why this person's advice may be worth following.

But let this serve as an important reminder not to obediently follow such advice or take such information to heart without verifying it first. Anyone on the internet can say they're a doctor. They don't have to prove their credentials to you. Anyone can say they've worked for 20 years in a field they haven't worked in -- how are you going to know? You, reading this right now, might take the time to Google their name and see if they're legitimate. But most viewers likely won't.

The idea that anyone can be whoever they want to be online seems innocent and fun until someone runs with information or advice that isn't accurate, helpful, or meant for them specifically. Absorb everything you watch, hear, and read online with caution. Fact-checking is easier than you think.