Navigating AI to Unpack Youth Privacy Concerns: An In-Depth Exploration and Systematic Review

Young people feel they lack control over their personal data in AI systems: The review found that across social media, educational technology, gaming, and recommendation algorithms, youth consistently report a perceived lack of control over their information and concerns about potential misuse of data by AI, data breaches, and unauthorized access.

Transparency and clear communication are essential for building trust: The study identifies that trust in AI systems is significantly influenced by transparency, reliability, predictable behavior, and clear communication about how data is used—suggesting that companies need to do much better at explaining their data practices to young users.

Young people will share data if they understand the benefits and trust protections: The research shows that intention to share data is closely associated with perceived benefits and data protection assurances, indicating that youth aren't categorically opposed to data sharing but need clear value propositions and genuine privacy safeguards.

Current data collection practices are too unclear and lack sufficient transparency: The review highlights that unclear data collection practices and insufficient transparency in AI applications are worsening privacy concerns, pointing to a systemic problem in how companies currently communicate with young users.

Education and parental involvement are critical gaps: The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive education on data privacy and the important role of parental mediation, suggesting that responsibility for protecting youth privacy shouldn't fall on young people alone.