Fitness influencer Lilly Sabri vows to keep personal life private after social media experience, sharing a cautionary tale of the consequences of online fame.
Lilly Sabri, a fitness influencer with six million followers on YouTube, has learned the hard way that sharing your life online comes with consequences. After a popular gossip podcast shared a story about her then-partner allegedly cheating on his fiancée, Lilly Sabri‘s world was turned upside down.
Two years ago, Lilly Sabri was living her dream, running two successful businesses that relied heavily on her online presence. However, after the podcast launched, her social media feeds were flooded with ‘investigator-style’ videos speculating about her life and how she would react. “I felt like I was under a microscope,” Lilly Sabri said. Feeling overwhelmed and wanting to protect herself and her family, Lilly Sabri made the difficult decision to delete her Instagram app.
From Online Phenomenon to Private Person
Lilly Sabri‘s relationship ended as a result of the podcast, but there were many other challenges to untangle. She had to lay off most of her staff, leaving her with no choice but to return to doing the work she used to have staff for. This meant juggling her personal heartbreak and shock with keeping her businesses afloat.
The Aftermath of a Public Exposé
Public exposure refers to the act of making personal information, habits, or behaviors publicly known.
This can occur through various means, including social media, online forums, or traditional media outlets.
The consequences of public exposure can be severe, leading to loss of privacy, damage to reputation, and even physical harm.
According to a survey, 60% of individuals reported experiencing negative effects after being exposed online.
Public figures, such as celebrities and politicians, are often subject to intense scrutiny and criticism due to their public exposure.
Lilly Sabri‘s experience serves as a reminder that once something is shared online, it can be impossible to take back. She has learned that people will constantly want more the more you give, and that sharing too much about your personal life can lead to exposure. Nearly eighteen months after her last post, Lilly Sabri is ready to return to her personal Instagram account – but with a very different set of rules this time around.
A Cautionary Lesson in Online Responsibility
Online responsibility refers to the moral and legal obligations individuals have when interacting with digital platforms.
As technology advances, online responsibility has become increasingly important.
In 2018, a survey found that 70% of internet users believed social media companies should be responsible for regulating online content.
Governments worldwide are implementing laws to hold tech giants accountable for user-generated content.
The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is one example, emphasizing the importance of data protection and transparency.
Lilly’s experience has been ‘a rollercoaster ride,’ she said. ‘I’ve learned that I need to be more careful about what I share online and take steps to protect myself and my family.’ Lilly Sabri‘s most recent Instagram post was uploaded in November 2023, with many comments asking why she has not posted for so long.
A New Approach to Online Presence
This time around, Lilly Sabri is taking a more measured approach. She acknowledges that sharing snapshots about herself helped build her brand, but also recognizes the pressure to share more and the consequences of doing so. “I want to be mindful of what I share and make sure it’s something that will bring me joy,’ she said.
A Message to Her Fans
Online safety is a growing concern in today's digital age.
To protect yourself, use strong and unique passwords for each account, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, as they may contain malware.
Regularly update your operating system and browser to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Additionally, use reputable antivirus software and a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.
Lilly’s story serves as a warning to anyone who feels pressured to share their personal life online. While building an online presence can be a powerful tool, it is essential to prioritize your own well-being and safety above all else. Lilly Sabri‘s journey is a testament to the importance of setting boundaries and being mindful of what you share online.
