What potential pitfalls can arise from using __set() to set variables in PHP classes?

Using __set() to set variables in PHP classes can lead to potential pitfalls such as bypassing encapsulation and allowing direct access to class properties without any validation or control. To avoid these issues, it's recommended to use getter and setter methods to enforce encapsulation and ensure proper validation and control over class properties.

class MyClass {
    private $myProperty;

    public function setMyProperty($value) {
        // Add validation or control logic here
        $this->myProperty = $value;
    }

    public function getMyProperty() {
        return $this->myProperty;
    }
}

$obj = new MyClass();
$obj->setMyProperty("example");
echo $obj->getMyProperty(); // Output: example