In recent years, a surprising phenomenon has attracted attention: Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, who grew up immersed in the digital age, is increasingly moving away from virtual environments.
The main reason? Growing concerns about digital security and data privacy. This trend runs counter to the common perception that this generation is highly dependent on social media and apps.
According to a recent survey by a virtual care platform, more than 80% of young people between the ages of 13 and 30 said they had stopped using certain apps due to privacy concerns.
This number is alarming and highlights a significant change in user behavior, as they begin to prioritize their security over connectivity.
History of leaks and the crisis of digital trust
Generation Z’s move away from digital platforms can be directly linked to the recent history of major data breach incidents.
One of the most iconic episodes was the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal in 2018, which revealed the misuse of personal information of millions of users for political manipulation. This widely publicized event left a deep mark on young people's trust in large platforms.
Another notable example is the Capital One data breach in 2019, which compromised the information of more than 100 million customers.
Even systems considered secure are not immune to cyber attacks, which creates a climate of distrust and uncertainty among users.
Furthermore, the vulnerability of social networks has also caused discomfort. Instagram, for example, has faced a series of cybersecurity incidents, in which the accounts of influencers and ordinary users have been hacked.
One of the most well-known cases involved digital influencer Priscila Kapelly, whose profile was hacked by cybercriminals who used her account to ask her followers for money. These incidents only reinforce Generation Z's fears about online security.
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The importance of awareness and protective measures
Despite the rise in digital threats, completely disconnecting from the internet is not a practical solution for most people.
However, there are several measures that can be taken to increase security and protect users' privacy without having to abandon online platforms.
One of the first recommended actions is to use strong, unique passwords for each account. Complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols make it harder for hackers to access user profiles. Additionally, changing passwords regularly can prevent exploitation of leaked credentials.
Another effective measure is multifactor authentication, which requires more than one step to access an account. Even if the password is compromised, multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of security, making unauthorized access more difficult.
Additionally, it is crucial to be careful about the permissions granted to applications. Many applications request access to information and features that are not essential to their operation.
It is important that users only grant the permissions that are strictly necessary, thus avoiding unnecessary exposure of personal data.
Keeping your apps and systems up to date is also a vital practice for digital security. Updates often include security fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities, which helps protect devices from attacks.
Monitoring account activity is also essential. This allows users to quickly identify any suspicious or unusual behavior and take the necessary steps to protect their profiles.
The growing search for digital security amid connectivity
In a scenario where digital connectivity is almost inevitable, awareness of cyber threats and the adoption of preventive measures are essential to ensure a safe online experience.
Generation Z, despite their apparent disconnect, is not rejecting technology per se, but rather adopting a more critical and selective stance towards the use of digital platforms.
The rise in privacy and security concerns reflects a significant change in behavior, which requires companies to respond appropriately to regain users’ trust.
Solutions such as strengthening security policies, transparency in the use of data and the development of tools that effectively protect privacy are essential steps to meet the demands of this new generation.
