University Students’ Awareness and Attitudes Towards Data Privacy in a Digital Age

In this study, the awareness and attitude of college students towards data privacy in the digital era are examined. The quantitative method applied in data collection was descriptive and cross-sectional, whereby undergraduate and graduate students were administered an online questionnaire. The findings indicate that despite the moderate level of knowledge about data privacy concepts and risks, students do not necessarily show cautious online behavior. The privacy paradox is also manifested in the fact that most students continue to share personal information despite the privacy issues. Another aspect that is highlighted in the study is the effect of perceived risk and trust in digital platforms on privacy attitudes and data-sharing behavior. The findings indicate the need to have behavior-oriented, practical data privacy education.