The impact of persuasion literacy training on anthropomorphization, privacy, and self-determined interactions with intelligent voice assistants

Intelligent voice assistants (IVAs) are widely used, but they also risk influencing users without their knowledge. The anthropomorphic nature of IVAs can tempt users to disclose more personal information and trust IVAs more than intended. Therefore, targeted training is necessary to sensitize users and protect them from the persuasive potential of IVAs. This study developed and evaluated two online training modules designed to promote persuasion literacy among student samples. The modules cover the anthropomorphic characteristics of IVAs, their persuasive power, and potential countermeasures. The results indicate that the training improves understanding of persuasion by IVAs, raises awareness of their persuasive potential, and promotes recognition of persuasion attempts. Additionally, the training modules reduce anthropomorphic perceptions of IVAs and reinforce psychological aspects to ensure privacy and self-determined interaction. The training modules provide an innovative approach to enhancing the competent use of IVAs. As a result, they represent an exciting approach for research and educational institutions to further explore and promote persuasion literacy in the context of IVAs and other AI-related applications. Therefore, this work contributes to enhancing the accessibility of digital educational programs.