RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This research aims to investigate the quality of consent provided by users of websites and applications regarding their understanding of terms of use and privacy policies. Through the application of a quantitative method with structured questionnaires, the study seeks to assess:

• If consent is informed: Data subjects must receive clear, comprehensive, and understandable information about how their data will be collected, used, processed, and shared, without omissions.
• If consent is unequivocal: It must be given in a clear and unambiguous manner. Users should express their agreement directly and without doubt.
• If consent is purpose-specific: Consent must be specific to the purpose for which the data is being collected.

Additionally, the study will collect responses on user vulnerabilities when using websites and applications, as well as on online scams and risks in the virtual world.

Data Collection
The data will be gathered through an electronic platform targeting university students in US, Brazil and Portugal. Collected data will be grouped and anonymized to ensure participants' privacy.

Outcome of the Research The findings will be presented in the final report of the post-doctoral project. The presentation of this research is scheduled for March 2026.