GoKawiilIncogni survey: 'nothing to hide' users more likely to snoop on others' screens
A survey of 1,517 US adults by data removal service Incogni found that people who say they have 'nothing to hide' are more likely to spy on others' phone or laptop screens in public than those who admit to having something to hide. The survey also found generational differences, with Gen Z most likely to peek at others' screens, and revealed that many respondents who dismiss their own privacy concerns still snoop through partners' or family members' devices without permission.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The findings expose a gap between people's stated indifference to privacy and their actual behavior toward others, suggesting the 'nothing to hide' mindset may mask a lack of respect for boundaries rather than genuine openness. As device snooping becomes more normalized, especially among younger generations, it raises broader questions about consent and trust in personal relationships and public spaces.
- 42% of 'nothing to hide' respondents admitted to spying on others' screens, versus 27% of those valuing privacy.
- Gen Z (49%) and Millennials (43%) are far more likely to snoop than Baby Boomers (14%).
- Most people tolerate device snooping from family or partners but strongly reject it from strangers.
Source: zdnet.com — Charlie Osborne, 2026-09-10
Published there as: “Your friend with ‘nothing to hide’ is more likely to spy on you, study shows”
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