I also have sympathy for the friends of influencers.

Like many other (much more successful) creators, I strive for authenticity in everything I put online.

I dont film in an unidentifiable studio.

I post from my office, my front stoop, my bed.

In reality, those glimpses of my room, my neighborhood, and my life arent slip-ups.

Theyre a key element of content creation as it currently exists.

This sort of cultivated authenticity is seen as key to online success right now.

And the easiest way to achieve authenticity is to let people into your life.

Sacrificing a little privacy for a lot of likes?

For many aspiring creators, it doesnt feel like a dramatic compromise.

But friends and families of content creators didnt necessarily sign up for that.

What should you do when your friends authenticity comes at the expense of your own comfort?

Heres how to start that conversation with your extremely online friend.

Risks of posting personal information online include fraud, harassment, and identity theft.

In that case, it might be time to steer the conversation in a more personal direction.

Set clear boundaries

Theres a chance your friend is oblivious to your discomfort.

I know firsthand how the pursuit of virality can give someone tunnel vision.

Always asking before filming something.

If they need it to be candid, request that they capture moments when youre out of the room.

Only use the live feature of Instagram and TikTok in a controlled environment.

Make certain rooms or occasions camera-free zones.

No revealing details that concern your life as well, e.g.

As every single movie about fame shows us, stardom is never worth sacrificing your personal relationships.

(Do we need another remake ofA Star is Bornfocused on TikTok influencers?

Im opening my screenwriting software now.)

At the end of the day, your privacy concerns are valid.

Its all too easy tofind anyone through the powers of the internet.

Heres our guide todisappearing from the internetassuming that your friend does indeed stop including you in their posts.

I know Ive become desensitized to how much of my life I broadcast online.

For friends of people like me: Speak up about your concerns.

Hopefully, you might help your friend understanding that respecting your boundaries are more important than posting online.

Your right to privacy is more important than someone elses so-called authenticity.