DIGITAL VULNERABILITIES AND SOCIAL ENGINEERING AMONG GENERATIONS Z AND ALPHA: CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

This article critically examines how Generations Z and Alpha — born roughly between 1995 and 2010 — experience the era of liquid modernity, characterized by fluid social ties and technological hyperconnectivity. We address the cognitive and emotional vulnerabilities of these generations in the face of digital social engineering, drawing on recent studies. Our analysis is grounded in Bauman’s Liquid Modernity and Liquid Love, Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, Desmurget’s Digital Dementia (Fábrica de Cretinos Digitais), and empirical research (2020–2025) on young people’s cognitive processes, content creator influence, neuroscience–AI integration, digital literacy impacts, and social media’s influence on subjectivity. A systematic literature review was conducted, revealing that intensive smartphone and social media use (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram) is associated with impaired attention, memory, and adolescent mental health. We conclude that critical digital literacy and ethical technology-use policies (e.g., screen time limits in schools) are essential to mitigate misinformation risks and foster resilient digital citizenship. Recommendations include early digital education and increased awareness of social media usage.