Adolescence is a phase marked by discoveries, identity formation and emotional vulnerabilities, especially under the constant gaze of social networks. The Netflix Adolescence series brings this portrait with sensitivity by showing the challenges faced by young people in the face of overexposure and digital pressure.
With social networks so on the agenda, one deserves particular attention: WhatsApp, consolidated as the main communication tool in Brazil, with approximately 169 million active users. Last year, when the meta’s AI reached the messenger, a new warning also came: how to ensure a safe and conscious use of technology in such a sensitive environment, especially for children and adolescents?
“The AI of Meta is able to answer questions, give recommendations, research news about subjects of our interest on the web without leaving the app and generate images and small GIFs for sharing”, explains Pierre dos Santos, AI analyst of East.
From the point of view of digital infrastructure, Lucas Rodrigues, communication manager at Leste, warns that the excessive exposure of teenagers on networks is aggravated by open profiles and lack of privacy settings. “Open profiles, without filters or privacy settings, make these young people more exposed to unwanted approaches, scams, inappropriate content and even emotional manipulation practices,” he says.
He reinforces that care starts before even opening the application: “Children and teenagers still do not have the repertoire necessary to deal with everything the internet offers.
Girl or villain? depends on the use
Even if AI does not have access to private conversations on WhatsApp and user data remains protected by messenger encryption, according to AI documentation, messages shared with the tool can be used to provide answers that are relevant to you or to improve this technology. “So do not send messages containing information you do not want to share with AI. At least we can delete the messages sent to the AI by typing /reset-all-ais in the conversation”, warns the analyst.
Pierre also says that AI is a powerful tool that can be useful in many contexts. However, it is essential to use responsibly and care, always thinking about the security and privacy of personal data. For this, he shares some basic but valuable tips, especially to teach children who are starting to have contact with the technology:
- Use AI as an auxiliary tool, not as a substitute for critical thinking;
- Use AI for tasks you find safe and risk-free to your privacy, avoiding sharing personal or confidential information with AI in your conversation;
- Avoid using AI to make important decisions;
- Research only topics of general interest, avoiding sensitive or controversial issues.
