In today’s digital age, data has become the currency of the modern world, shaping everything from social media algorithms to targeted advertising. Every time young people log into their favorite apps or post on social platforms, they leave behind valuable data that is harvested, analyzed, and often sold. Yet, according to a 2022 survey by Pew Research Center, 79% of teenagers in the U.S. admitted they were concerned about how their personal data was being used but felt powerless to control it. This disconnection between data use and understanding creates a form of data hegemony—where large corporations wield control over users’ information, while users, particularly youth, remain largely uninformed about the fate of their data.

This issue is even more pronounced in developing countries, where young people often have less access to digital literacy education and privacy protections. According to UNICEF’s 2021 report, children and youth in low- and middle-income countries are particularly vulnerable to data misuse due to weaker data protection laws and limited regulatory oversight. For instance, in sub-Saharan Africa, only 28% of countries have implemented comprehensive data protection policies, compared to 80% in Europe. As mobile phone and internet usage rapidly expands in these regions, young people are increasingly exposed to privacy risks without the necessary tools to understand or control their data.

This article will discuss how young people, especially in vulnerable regions, can become better informed about their data usage and break free from passive participation in the digital world.

Understanding the Dynamics of Data Usage

Data usage is a complex, often invisible process that occurs every time we interact with digital platforms. When young people sign up for a new app or service, they aren’t just providing an email or username—they are potentially handing over much more, including their location, browsing habits, and interactions on the platform. This data is collected by companies to build detailed profiles that go beyond what users knowingly share. For instance, social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok don’t just record posts and likes; they also track how long users linger on certain posts, which ads catch their attention, and even the time of day they’re most active. This is known as behavioral tracking, and it fuels targeted advertising and content recommendations.

A famous real-world example of data misuse is the Facebook–-Cambridge Analytica scandal, where personal data of millions of Facebook users was harvested without their knowledge or consent. This data was used for political advertising, influencing voters in several countries. Many users were unaware that simply engaging with a quiz or app on Facebook could give third parties access to their personal information.

While the Cambridge Analytica scandal occurred in a developed context, similar issues arise globally. For instance, in developing countries like Kenya, where internet access is rapidly growing, a 2021 Mozilla Foundation study found that many popular apps collect personal data without adequate user consent, further highlighting the risks for young people in regions with weaker privacy regulations.

As artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly shapes digital experiences, it's important for young people to understand that AI models are trained on vast amounts of data, including their own. Without proper oversight, this data can be used in ways that reinforce biases or invade privacy. Youth must be aware of how their data contributes to AI systems and advocate for ethical AI use and transparency in its data training processes.

Therefore, young people across the world should understand these dynamics of data collection and usage is vital for safeguarding their privacy and digital rights.

Challenges to Informed Data Usage

One of the most significant barriers to informed data usage is the complexity of privacy policies and terms of service agreements. For instance, Instagram’s privacy policy states, “We collect and use your content, communications, and other information you provide when you use our Services,” which includes everything from the photos you post to metadata, such as time stamps and geolocation. This dense language, often found in terms of service agreements, makes it difficult for the average young user to fully comprehend what they are agreeing to. A 2021 Common Sense Media report revealed that only 9% of teens feel confident they understand the privacy policies they encounter, leaving them unaware of how much data they’re sharing.

This problem is exacerbated by the power imbalance between tech companies and young users. Large tech companies like Google, Facebook, and TikTok employ sophisticated algorithms capable of processing massive amounts of data. They collect, store, and analyze personal information, often selling it to third parties for targeted advertising. Most young people are unaware of this extensive data collection, believing they are merely engaging with a fun app or social media platform.

The psychological impact of this lack of understanding is profound. Studies show that young users, when confronted with the reality of how much data is collected about them, feel overwhelmed and powerless. A 2021 UNICEF survey found that 73% of teens across multiple countries, including Brazil and South Africa, felt concerned or anxious when they realized the extent of data being collected without their consent. 

Empowering Youth Through Data Literacy

Educational programs are essential to empower young people with knowledge about data usage. One solution is forming partnerships between tech companies and educational institutions to teach students about data rights using interactive, scenario-based learning. For example, companies like Google or Facebook could collaborate with schools to organize workshops where students make real-world privacy decisions. A 2020 MediaSmarts study found that students using privacy simulations were 40% more likely to understand data sharing implications than those who only read about it.

Simplifying privacy policies is also crucial. Many are filled with legal jargon that’s hard for young users to understand. For instance, the phrase, “We may collect and process personal information such as geolocation” could be simplified to, “We use your location to show relevant ads.” In the United Kingdom, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has introduced child-friendly privacy policies using simpler language. Furthermore, gamifying data literacy could make learning fun and engaging. Apps could offer rewards for securing profiles and adjusting privacy settings, similar to how Duolingo motivates users through gamification. This would encourage young people to actively manage their data while making privacy education more engaging.

The Role of Young People in Shaping Data Policies

Youth have a significant role in shaping data policies and advocating for responsible data usage. Across the globe, youth-led initiatives are gaining momentum, demonstrating how young people can actively participate in discussions around data governance. For example, in the U.S., the Future of Privacy Forum engages students to influence policy debates around digital privacy. Similarly, the Youth IGF (Internet Governance Forum), a global initiative, provides platforms for young people to contribute to discuss internet governance, data privacy, and security.

In developing economies, young leaders are also making their mark. In Kenya, the Ajira Digital Program has empowered youth by equipping them with digital skills and advocacy tools to participate in data policy discussions. These initiatives showcase how Generation Z brings fresh perspectives to the challenges of responsible data usage and security, promoting data transparency and accountability.

To further engage in policy-making, young people can work with policymakers by joining public consultations and online advocacy groups, and collaborating with organisations dedicated to data rights. Platforms like the European Youth Parliament provide avenues for youth to voice concerns and shape policies that ensure data transparency and the protection of their digital rights.

Conclusion

Informed data usage is essential in today’s digital world. Young people are major contributors to the vast amounts of personal data being collected. By understanding how data is gathered and used, youth can break free from the passive role they often play in digital ecosystems. Education is the key—schools and tech companies must collaborate to teach data literacy through interactive learning, simplified privacy policies, and engaging tools like gamification. 

Youth also have a vital role to play in shaping the future of data governance by participating in advocacy efforts, influencing policies, and collaborating with policymakers. This helps promote data transparency and responsible usage. By becoming informed and actively engaging, young people can help create a digital world where their rights and privacy are fully protected.

About the Author

Tuhinsubhra Giri is an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Studies in Population and Development, Department of Economics, Christ University (India). He is passionate about data governance, MSME development, and youth empowerment, consistently merging theoretical insights with practical applications to drive strategic policy recommendations.

Si Peng works as a Program Manager at the Institute for Sustainable Development Goals, Tsinghua University. Her areas of interest include advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), digitalization, and designing training methodologies for government institutions.

References 

Ajira Digital Program, “Youth and Digital Skills in Kenya,” 2021.
Common Sense Media, “Privacy Risks for Teens,” 2021.
Future of Privacy Forum, “Youth Privacy Advocates Program,” 2022.
MediaSmarts, “Interactive Privacy Education,” 2020.
Mozilla Foundation, “Privacy Concerns in the Global South,” 2021.
Pew Research Center, “Teens’ Concerns About Privacy in a Digital Age,” 2022.
The Guardian, “The Cambridge Analytica Scandal,” 2018.
UNICEF, “Children’s Data Protection in the Digital World,” 2021.

(Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash)

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