Chatbots as digital companions, AI-driven teaching tools, and content-generation tools are all examples of how generative AI (genAI) is transforming how young people learn, connect, and express themselves.

However, the rapid rise of genAI use has exposed youth to unprecedented privacy risks. Unlike adults, children and teenagers often trust technology — and now AI systems — without fully understanding how they work, making young people more vulnerable to data collection, manipulation, and exploitation.

From unauthorized data collection and profiling to the spread of deepfake child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to AI-generated cyberbullying, genAI is already amplifying the risks youth face online. Policymakers, technologists, educators, and parents must act now to implement concrete safeguards and mitigate harm.

This report examines the unique privacy risks children and teenagers face when using genAI tools, particularly in educational and social media settings. Using a mixed-method research approach, including a literature review, expert interviews, and case studies, the report assesses existing policy frameworks, identifies gaps in protections, and recommends best practices for policymakers, technologists, educators, and parents to mitigate risks and enhance youth privacy.