Abstract
Generative AI tools are increasingly used by university students for tasks such as writing, research, and problem solving. While these tools offer clear benefits, they also raise concerns about data privacy and how user information may be collected or stored. This study explores how students perceive privacy risks when using generative AI and whether these concerns influence their behavior. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 students across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. The findings show that although students are generally aware that AI systems collect user data, this awareness rarely leads them to stop using these tools. Instead, of that students have a tendency to adopt small strategies to manage privacy risks, such as avoiding sensitive information. The results highlight how privacy concerns coexist with continued AI use, reflecting the dynamics of the privacy paradox in the context of generative AI.
Recommended Citation
Hussain, Ghazal Manzoor; Ho, Shuyuan Mary; and Anis, Sumra, "When Competitive Advantage Wins: A Privacy Calculus Perspective Of Generative AI Use Among University Students" (2026). SAIS 2026 Proceedings. 30.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/sais2026/30