Google is trying to teach Gen Z how to “internet better” with a “self aware PSA”—but their efforts to reach the gen might be a little tone deaf.

Google is trying to teach Gen Z how to “internet better” with a “self aware PSA”—but their efforts to reach the gen might be a little tone deaf. Last week, YPulse shared how Gen Z is ditching Google as their main search engine and looking to social media instead; Google is acting swiftly to help lure young people back in. The search engine launched an educational campaign called, “Let’s Internet Better” that features a series of animated shorts that are geared towards online troubles like misinformation, con artists, and catfishing. They even partnered with some top TikTok creators, like Hank Green, to produce content on internet safety. But some feel their efforts are coming off as scolding and patronizing to the digital natives. The search engine might be underestimating Gen Z’s ability to think critically, especially when “reports and FTC data [are] showing that it’s older age groups who are increasingly falling victim to online fraud.” (Fast Company, The Drum)