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10 Ruhuna Arts Student’s Annual Sessions (RASAS) -2025
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Data Privacy Awareness among University of Ruhuna Undergraduates on Social
Media

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G.G.S. Rameshika , B.W.D.M.R.Y.D.K.D. Bulathwaththa , D.M.B. Dasanayaka ,
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H.L.S. Abilashi , R.M.L.I.T. Rathnayaka , R.P.V. Pathirana and R.M.T.S.R. Senarathna 7
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Department of Information Technology, University of Ruhuna
Sandunirameshika0@gmail.com

ABSTRACT
In the current digital era, social media has become an integral part of the lives of the young generation,
especially university undergraduates. However, this widespread use of social media raises concerns regarding
undergraduates’ awareness of data privacy. This research investigates the levels of data privacy awareness

among undergraduate students at the University of Ruhuna. Data were collected and analyzed through a
questionnaire distributed among a sample of undergraduates representing all degree programs in nine faculties.

The survey assessed students’ knowledge of privacy settings, data protection policies, and data protection
practices used on social media platforms. Survey results revealed that, among undergraduates, Facebook and
WhatsApp emerged as the most frequently used social media platform, while TikTok, Instagram, X, Telegram,

and Snapchat also ranked prominently among the top-used apps, indicating their strong popularity within the
student community. The findings indicate that students demonstrate a low-level of awareness of data privacy,

and there is a significant lack of practical knowledge of data privacy protection methods and tools related to
these social media applications. This research highlights the urgent need to enhance data privacy awareness
among university students and promote safe online practices. The outcomes of this research aim to provide

policy recommendations and support the development of effective educational interventions to strengthen data
privacy awareness among the undergraduates of the University of Ruhuna.

Keywords: Awareness, Data Privacy, Social Media, Undergraduates, University of Ruhuna

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