My local news app in Boston went from helpful to hostile in about six months

It used to show a mix of city council updates, school events, and maybe one crime story. Now, after some 'personalization' update, 90% of my feed is violent crime reports and missing person alerts from three states away. It feels like the algorithm decided fear gets clicks and is now feeding me a steady diet of anxiety. Has anyone else had a local service turn into a fear machine like this?

3 comments

3 Comments

simonp7623d ago

Spot the same thing everywhere now. My weather app pushes "dangerous" storm alerts for a light drizzle, and my neighborhood feed is all porch pirate videos. It's not just news, it's every app trying to make you scared you'll miss the next big threat. Totally agree with @vera_robinson36 about who benefits, because it sure isn't my peace of mind. They've turned basic info into a horror show to keep us checking.

taylorshah22d ago

Ugh, exactly. I muted all those alerts like Simonp76 mentioned and just check the actual radar now. It cut out like 90% of the noise and my phone feels less like a panic button. The apps really do run on that scared feeling.

vera_robinson3623d ago

Right? It’s like they’re betting on your worst fears to keep you glued to the screen. Makes you wonder who actually benefits from everyone being this stressed.