5 Surprising Social Media Trends

Like most people, I tweet, check the ol' statuses on Facebook to see what's up, shrug on a blazer and pretend I'm wearing panty hose when I log into LinkedIn, and chill with the cool kids over at Tumblr. Because of all that, I feel like I'm somewhat savvy when it comes to social media, but whoa dang, I came across some interesting statistics that not even I knew. So allow me to share the enlightenment so that we're all educated. . .

#1. Social media isn't just for punks.
The fastest growing demographic on Twitter is the 55-64 year age bracket. This demographic has grown 79% since 2012.
The 45-54 year age bracket is the fastest growing demographic on both Facebook and Google+. For Facebook, this group has jumped 46%. For Google+, 56%.

#2. LinkedIn sounds stuffy, but don't let the word "professional" intimidate you.

Every second 2 new members join LinkedIn, a network which is handy as a source of information and conversation for professionals who want to connect to others in their industry.

#3. Social Media has kicked porn to the curb.

The most popular activity on the web is no longer ogling naked bodies. Social networking sites are now the hottest attractions according to an article over at Reuters.

#4. 25% of smartphone owners aged 18-44 can't remember the last time their smartphone wasn't with them.

That means there are probably very few times when they're not connected in some way to the internet.

#5. 25% of Facebook users don't bother with privacy settings.

Not that the NSA and/or a stalker isn't going to run an end goal around whatever precautions you try to take, still, there's no reason to make their job easier. 

Which reminds me. . . have you all changed your passwords on all your social media sites and other password protected places you visit? HEARTBLEED is a nasty virus used to steal encrypted information such as, well, passwords. Most social media sites have updated against this bug but you still need to change your old passwords in case your information was compromised.