YouTube and You – Privacy Primer for Everyday Users

"YouTube and You" is a visual policy primer created to unpack the complex—and often overlooked—privacy implications of using YouTube. With the platform so deeply embedded in daily entertainment and content creation, this project aimed to strip away the corporate jargon and clearly communicate how user data is collected, tracked, and used by YouTube.

The primer was designed with everyday users in mind, blending informative content with accessible design. It served not only as an educational tool but also as a call to action, encouraging users to take more control of their data and understand the real-world impact of recommendation algorithms.

My Role:
I researched and interpreted YouTube’s Privacy Policy, then translated the key concepts into an engaging, easy-to-follow online primer. I created the layout, wrote the content in plain language, and integrated visual elements to enhance comprehension and appeal. I also included actionable privacy tips to empower users.

Key Features:

User-Centric Design: Aimed at casual YouTube users, using relatable language and visuals to demystify technical policy terms.

Central Hub: The website served as a one-stop resource, connecting policy insights with practical guides and further reading.

Platform Critique: Explored how YouTube’s algorithm influences visibility, political bias, and the spread of misinformation.

Multi-Layered Content: Covered data collection methods, algorithmic concerns, and privacy tips across sections to maintain flow and depth.

Supplementary Resources: Embedded links to studies, articles, and policy documents for users who wanted to dig deeper.

Outcome:
"YouTube and You" successfully translated a dense, opaque policy into a digestible, interactive format that raised awareness of surveillance, algorithmic bias, and user rights. The project emphasised digital literacy and platform accountability by encouraging viewers to question the convenience of “free” content and take ownership of their online presence.