Skcin computer tan hoax

Computer Tan Hoax was a public awareness campaign launched in 2009 by the British skin cancer charity, Skcin (The Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity), to highlight the dangers of using tanning beds. The campaign cleverly used the concept of a "computer tan," a fictitious method of tanning through computer screens, to draw attention to the real risks of UV radiation and the importance of skin cancer prevention.

Background

The campaign was created in response to the increasing rates of skin cancer in the United Kingdom, particularly among young people. Skcin aimed to engage this demographic through an innovative approach that utilized the internet and social media, platforms where the target audience spent a significant amount of time.

The Hoax

The centerpiece of the Computer Tan Hoax was a website that offered users a free "computer tan" by exposing them to what was claimed to be safe UV radiation through their computer screens. Visitors to the site were encouraged to turn up their screen brightness to receive their tan. After a brief countdown, the website revealed that the offer was a hoax and presented users with educational material about the dangers of real tanning methods, particularly tanning beds, and the importance of skin cancer prevention.

Impact

The Computer Tan Hoax was successful in generating widespread media attention and public interest. It was covered by various news outlets and discussed on social media, leading to a significant increase in awareness about skin cancer and the dangers associated with tanning beds. The campaign also directed traffic to Skcin's website, where visitors could find more information about skin cancer prevention and support the charity's work.

Criticism and Controversy

While the Computer Tan Hoax was praised for its creativity and effectiveness in raising awareness, it also faced criticism. Some argued that the use of a hoax could undermine trust in health promotion campaigns and potentially confuse the public about serious health messages. However, supporters of the campaign countered that the unconventional approach was necessary to cut through the noise and engage a demographic that might otherwise ignore traditional health warnings.

Legacy

The Computer Tan Hoax remains a notable example of a successful public health awareness campaign that used innovative tactics to engage and educate the public about a serious health issue. It demonstrated the potential of using digital platforms and creative messaging to reach and impact a wide audience, particularly younger individuals who are often hard to engage through conventional health promotion efforts.