Scientists are expressing growing concern over an increase in shark bites involving individuals seeking to capture footage for social media. At least three influencers have been bitten by sharks in less than a year, with these incidents often recorded on camera.
Tayane Dalazen, a 37-year-old social media personality, was bitten on her leg by a nurse shark during a diving trip in Brazil in April. She later posted footage of the incident online. Other incidents include a fishing influencer who was attacked by a reef shark in July, and a Chinese content creator bitten in the Maldives in December.
Researchers at the International Shark Attack File have reported a significant rise over the past three years in people being bitten while trying to film with sharks. Kristian Parton, a shark scientist, stated that he now sees videos of people swimming too close to, touching, or riding sharks every week, warning of potential serious incidents.
A study on "swim with wildlife" expeditions found that influencers and photographers were most likely to disregard safety instructions. Marine biologist Eric Clua suggests that the increasing number of incidents is a consequence of people perceiving sharks as less dangerous due to messages from influencers.
Experts also highlight that human interactions can cause stress to sharks. Scientific studies indicate that approaching or touching a shark can lead to high levels of glucocorticoid hormones, which may result in a weakened immune system, increased mortality, and aborted offspring.