The advancement of artificial intelligence has simplified the creation of fake content, making it increasingly difficult for American teenagers to differentiate between authentic and altered media. A new study by Common Sense Media reveals that AI-generated misinformation is influencing teens’ online experiences, further eroding trust in digital platforms and major technology companies.
The study surveyed 1,000 teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18, finding that 35% reported being deceived by fake content. An even higher percentage—41%—encountered content that was real but misleading, while 22% admitted to sharing false information online. These findings highlight the increasing difficulty young users face in navigating an internet flooded with AI-generated material.
Teenagers’ engagement with artificial intelligence is rapidly expanding. A separate study conducted in September found that 70% of teens had tried generative AI tools. However, despite advancements in AI technology, even leading platforms struggle with accuracy. A July 2024 study from Cornell University, the University of Washington, and the University of Waterloo found that AI models frequently produce “hallucinations,” fabricating false information that appears credible. With generative AI becoming more accessible, concerns are rising about how easily misinformation spreads online.
Many teenagers believe AI will make it even harder to verify information. As misinformation becomes more prevalent, nearly half of the surveyed teens expressed distrust in major tech corporations such as Google, Apple, Meta, TikTok, and Microsoft, questioning whether these companies are making responsible decisions regarding AI implementation. This skepticism mirrors a broader dissatisfaction among the American public, as concerns over misinformation and weakened digital safeguards continue to grow.
Social media platforms have been instrumental in influencing the digital information environment. Since Elon Musk acquired Twitter (now X) in 2022, moderation teams have been significantly reduced, allowing misinformation and hate speech to spread more freely. The reinstatement of previously banned conspiracy theorists and other policy changes have further contributed to a less regulated environment. Similarly, Meta recently replaced third-party fact-checkers with its Community Notes system, a shift that may increase the visibility of misleading or harmful content across Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms.
The findings from the Common Sense Media report emphasize the need for digital literacy efforts to help teenagers recognize and combat misinformation. The study suggests that technology companies should prioritize transparency and introduce new features to enhance content credibility. Without these measures, the growing distrust in digital platforms may continue, making it even more challenging for young users to navigate the increasingly complex online landscape.