: Many believe that "private stories" or disappearing content (like Snapchat) are truly secure, despite the ease of screenshots and leaks. Shifting Perspectives (2024–2025 Data)
Teens often distinguish between (who can see their posts) and "informational privacy" (what data companies collect).
: Roughly 75% of young people find social media's terms of service difficult to understand due to technical language, leading to a sense of powerlessness. Teens, Social Media, and Privacy - Pew Research Center Teens don’t seem super concerned about social m...
: The adolescent brain is highly sensitive to social rewards (likes, comments), which often overrides the more abstract, long-term risks of data sharing.
While personal concern remains low, collective concern is rising: : Many believe that "private stories" or disappearing
: Only 14% of teens feel social media personally affects them negatively, suggesting they believe they are "immune" to the risks they see affecting their peers.
: Approximately 48% of teens now believe social media has a negative impact on people their age, a significant jump from 32% in 2022. Teens, Social Media, and Privacy - Pew Research
: Despite the appearance of unconcern, many are taking control. Around 44% of teens report trying to cut back on their social media or smartphone use. Psychological and Structural Drivers