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Only 25% of teenagers can correctly identify deepfakes
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The findings are based on a survey conducted last summer among 14,797 respondents in 15 countries. As part of our ongoing research into the digital lives of young people and adults, Microsoft has surveyed more than 130,000 people in 37 countries over the past decade.
More connections, but less security
While teens reported feeling more connected and productive thanks to technology and AI, they also said they felt less safe in digital spaces. Overall exposure to online risks has increased significantly, with 64% of teens reporting experiencing at least one online risk in the past year.
The most common threats included hate speech reported by 35% of respondents, online fraud by 29%, and cyberbullying by 23%.
At the same time, the study also found signs of increased awareness and responsiveness. 72% of teens said they talked to someone after encountering an online risk, with reporting rates increasing for the second year in a row. About 75% said they had taken protective measures such as blocking users or closing their accounts.
Weekly usage of generative AI increased sharply from 13% in 2023 to 38% in 2025. The most common uses included answering questions at 42%, planning at 41%, and improving work efficiency at 37%.
Despite progress in implementation, concerns remain widespread. Of the teens surveyed, 91% expressed some degree of concern about AI, with 78% citing risks such as sexual exploitation or abuse, 77% AI-based fraud, and 70% privacy invasion.
An overwhelming majority of respondents (approximately 81%) said they expect technology companies to restrict illegal and harmful content. The most requested protections included filtering sexual content and limiting messages to known contacts.
Microsoft said it continues to strengthen its safety mechanisms to address evolving digital risks. The company recently closed applications for the first group of its new AI Futures Youth Council. The group includes teenagers from the United States and the European Union who will provide direct feedback on emerging technologies.
Alongside the continued development of safety tools across Windows and Xbox platforms, Microsoft also announced that it will be collaborating with the Cyberlite organization on a new research initiative to examine how teens ages 13 to 17 use AI-powered companion-style applications.
“The research data shows how important it is to take a systematic approach to digital safety, especially in the age of artificial intelligence,” said Noah Gevaon, director of government relations at Microsoft Israel. “We have found time and time again that the right combination of policy, technology and education is key to strengthening the digital resilience of young people.”
