A new survey by Uplevyl, an Austin-based company, highlights a growing trend of women disengaging from major social media platforms due to concerns over misinformation, harassment, security, and mental health impacts.
A Mass Exodus from Social Media
In a striking shift in digital behavior, nearly half (48%) of women have stopped using at least one social media platform, according to new research conducted by Uplevyl. The data reveals a mounting dissatisfaction with online spaces, fueled primarily by misinformation, security risks, and concerns over personal well-being.
One of the most significant findings is that 24% of women have completely stopped using Twitter, now rebranded as X, within the past year. This mass departure underscores the increasing unease surrounding the platform’s credibility and user experience. Additionally, over half of the women surveyed cited misinformation and poor-quality content as key reasons for their reduced engagement with social media.
Mental Health and Time Management at the Forefront
Women are also prioritizing their mental health and time management, which has contributed to a decline in social media participation. Nearly half (48%) of respondents reported that concerns over their well-being played a role in their decision to disengage, while 46% cited time management as a major factor.
These figures suggest that social media is not just a source of information and entertainment but also a space that is increasingly perceived as overwhelming, toxic, and detrimental to personal productivity. With more discussions emerging around digital well-being, the trend of reduced engagement may signal a broader movement toward more intentional and mindful online interactions.
Security and Harassment Fears Continue to Rise
As digital threats evolve, security and harassment remain persistent issues for women online. The survey found that only 8% of women feel their personal data is “completely protected” on social platforms, indicating a deep-rooted distrust in tech companies’ ability to safeguard user information.
Alarmingly, over 60% of women reported experiencing direct harassment, security breaches, or both. This highlights the ongoing struggle many face in navigating digital spaces that often lack adequate moderation and protective measures.
Perhaps most notably, 43% of respondents expressed willingness to pay an average monthly fee of $25 for guaranteed personal data protection. This statistic reveals a strong demand for improved security features, suggesting that many women would prioritize privacy over free access if given a viable option.
Trust in Social Media Varies by Platform
The perception of trustworthiness across platforms differs significantly, with Twitter/X and Facebook ranking as the least trustworthy. Only 10% of women surveyed believe that conversations on Twitter/X are completely truthful, reflecting widespread skepticism about the accuracy and reliability of content on the platform.
In contrast, LinkedIn emerged as the most trusted social media site, with 64% of women viewing it favorably. This distinction may be attributed to LinkedIn’s professional focus, which tends to encourage more credible interactions compared to platforms designed for general social engagement.
Additionally, the survey found that across all social media platforms, less than 30% of women regularly make public-facing posts or comments. This suggests a level of apprehension regarding public discourse, potentially due to fear of backlash, misinformation, or concerns over privacy.
A Growing Demand for Women-Only Online Spaces
With trust in mainstream social media platforms waning, interest in women-only online spaces is rising. According to the survey, 46% of women see value in these exclusive communities because they allow for more focused discussions on specific topics. Furthermore, 44% appreciate the ability to share personal content in an environment where they feel safer.
Professional networking and mentorship also emerged as key motivators for joining women-specific digital spaces. Over 40% of respondents cited these aspects as crucial for their career growth and personal development. The demand for these platforms reflects a broader trend toward digital communities that cater to specific needs, fostering both security and meaningful engagement.
What This Means for the Future of Social Media
The findings from Uplevyl’s survey indicate a shifting landscape in how women approach social media. As concerns over misinformation, security, and mental health take center stage, traditional platforms may face declining engagement unless they implement significant reforms.
The rise of alternative digital spaces, particularly those tailored to women, suggests that users are seeking environments where they feel safe, valued, and able to participate without fear of harassment or data exploitation. With nearly half of women abandoning at least one social media platform and a quarter quitting Twitter/X altogether, it is clear that the status quo is no longer sustainable.
Moving forward, social media companies may need to prioritize transparency, robust security measures, and community-driven engagement strategies to rebuild trust and retain users. If they fail to do so, women will likely continue their exodus in favor of more inclusive and secure digital spaces.
“The fact that nearly half of the women are stepping back from social media is not just a statistic – it’s a clear signal that current platforms are failing to create safe, supportive and uplifting spaces for women. These numbers speak to extreme levels of harassment and privacy breaches,” said Shubhi Rao, founder and CEO of Uplevyl. “Our research confirmed what we’ve long suspected: women need technology intentionally designed for them. This isn’t just about creating another platform; it’s about fundamentally rethinking the role of technology in information dissemination and relationship building.”
Jacki Zehner, UP’s Chief Engagement Officer adds, “We believe that by building transparent, respectful, and community-driven technology, we can help reverse the trend of women feeling forced to choose between digital connection and their wellbeing and safety. “
