INVESTIGATING HOW STUDENTS AT FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC NASARAWA ARE AWARE OF THE PRIVACY IMPLICATIONS AND RISKS INVOLVED IN POSTING PERSONAL PHOTOS ON FACEBOOK

ABSTRACT Investigating How Students at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa Are Aware of the Privacy Implications and Risks Involved in Posting Personal Photos on Facebook This study investigates the level of awareness among students of Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa regarding the privacy implications and associated risks of posting personal photographs on Facebook. The key objectives were to assess students’ awareness of Facebook privacy risks, examine their knowledge of privacy settings, understand their motivations for sharing personal photos, and evaluate their willingness to adopt safer online practices. The theoretical framework for this study is grounded in the theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Communication Privacy Management (CPM) theory, which explain how individual awareness, perceived control, and attitudes influence behavior related to online privacy. A quantitative research methodology was employed. Data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to a sample of 365 students across various departments and levels. The data were analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, and interpretive discussion. the findings revealed that although a large proportion of students are active Facebook users and aware of some privacy risks (e.g., strangers accessing photos or cybercriminal misuse), many lack detailed knowledge of Facebook’s privacy settings. Less than half of the students have ever reviewed their settings, and over 50% consider themselves not knowledgeable about how privacy controls work. Nonetheless, the study found strong interest among students in learning more about online safety, with the majority supporting the introduction of formal digital literacy or social media privacy training by the institution. Based on the findings, it is recommended that Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa introduce digital privacy training, awareness campaigns, and regular workshops on social media safety. These initiatives would equip students with practical skills and knowledge needed to navigate social platforms like Facebook more securely.