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Generative AI literacy: Scale development and its influence on privacy protection behaviors and information verification behaviors

Author

Listed:
  • Yan, Wenjia
  • Liu, Yu-li
  • Mamaeva, Valeriia
  • Dong, Fang
  • Tao, Guannan
  • Li, Rubing
  • Yang, Heng

Abstract

This study seeks to develop and validate a generative AI literacy scale, examining its influence on privacy protection and information verification behaviors. Using a mixed-methods approach that includes qualitative focus groups (n = 47) and a nationwide survey (n = 535), four essential dimensions of literacy are identified, namely, awareness, usage, evaluation, and ethics/risks. The results indicate that the scale incorporates features unique to generative AI, such as crafting effective prompts to improve performance and addressing risks related to misinformation, legal challenges, and systemic bias. Structural equation modeling reveals that awareness and ethics/risks significantly predict both privacy protection and information verification behaviors, while frequent users of generative AI are less likely to verify the information encountered. This research contributes to advancing the measurement of generative AI literacy and provides practical insights into fostering a responsible and informed adoption of generative AI technologies across diverse user groups.

Suggested Citation

  • Yan, Wenjia & Liu, Yu-li & Mamaeva, Valeriia & Dong, Fang & Tao, Guannan & Li, Rubing & Yang, Heng, 2026. "Generative AI literacy: Scale development and its influence on privacy protection behaviors and information verification behaviors," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 50(2).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:50:y:2026:i:2:s0308596125002149
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2025.103117
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    References listed on IDEAS

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