SOCIAL NETWORK USAGE AND SELF-PROTECTION PRACTICES AMONG STUDENTS IN HANOI

Abstract

This paper discusses the current situation of social media usage and self-protection behaviors among by Hanoi students. The survey had been conducted with a sample size of 598 students selected from 5 universities in Hanoi. The results of the study shows that students not only spend significant time on social media each day but also use multiple social media platforms simultaneously. On average, a student uses approximately 6 different social media networks and relies on them for many basic daily activities. Female students tend to use multiple social media platforms and spend more time on them each day than male students. While students have initially shown a sense of self-protection on social media space, many still engage in risky behaviors that can lead to personal insecurity. The results provide important practical evidences to consolidate and provide more suitable solutions for young people in general , and students in particular, to enhance their safety in their online social media space.