Instagram accounts related to Ripon High activities have been popping up on the internet. From catching people when they’re sleeping in class to showing who has the best style at the school, these accounts can seem harmless and enjoyable. However, what started as a joke has unfortunately turned slightly more upsetting.

The idea itself is quite unique and mostly innocuous. People can get a small laugh out of seeing someone slacking off in class or eating strangely. The problem occurs not with the original creators of the trend at Ripon High, but rather when others make new accounts that take it too far. People who are posted on these accounts don’t give their permission most of the time, something that should always be asked before posting a picture on social media.

“I would not be happy if someone posted me without my permission,” said Alana Jones, sophomore. “If it was on one of the more mellow accounts and didn’t show my face I wouldn’t be too mad.”

In the beginning, the social media profiles were very lighthearted in general. For example, when the account for students sleeping in class was started, it was only for real pictures. Also, the photos were usually sent in by friends. Now, people fake these photos, which takes away from the jokes, or take pictures of random people and send them in without their permission.

“Some accounts are definitely an invasion of privacy,” said Hailey Williford, freshman. “But if they aren’t super invasive, there should just be the option to take down any posts if asked to.”

On certain accounts, the creators have said that they would take down the post if the person in the picture asks them to. While this is a good way to get rid of people who are genuinely making fun of others, there are still accounts that do not give that option. If everyone was doing this in good fun, it wouldn’t be nearly as big of a problem as it is now. Unfortunately, Instagram accounts can be made by anyone, including people who are creating them simply to cyber bully.

“Some of them [accounts] are quite funny and harmless,” said Saige Martin, sophomore. “But others are hurtful and disgusting.”

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