‘My social life completely plummeted’: gen Z is fighting back against big tech

Young people are turning to tools that limit screen time as they push back against platforms they say profit from their attention, the Guardian reported. Apps that block distractions and stripped‑down phones are gaining popularity among Gen Z, who say social media has taken over their lives. Nelissa Moukoudi, a 19‑year‑old university student in Canada, told the outlet that after joining Instagram and TikTok, “My social life completely plummeted and it felt like my life was only [using] social media and school.”

In a separate development, the BBC highlighted the work of programmer Ondřej Surý, whose PHP patches helped avert a cyber crisis. His contributions were credited with preventing wider disruption, underscoring the role of individual developers in maintaining online security.

Why it matters

The stories show how concerns over digital wellbeing are prompting behavioral changes, while technical fixes remain vital to protect internet infrastructure.

Key details

Location

Canada · Americas

Reported by

The Guardian and BBC News

First reported

27 Oct 2026, 15:30 IST

Key names

Nelissa Moukoudi, Instagram, TikTok, Ondřej Surý

Section

Technology

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publishers:

• The Guardian‘My social life completely plummeted’: gen Z is fighting back against big tech 27 Oct, 15:30
• BBC NewsTech Life 28 Oct, 02:00

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

Spotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced