User confidence in social media giants has been plummeting in the wake of data privacy scandals and the rise of ‘fake news’. As a result, many are choosing to connect with like-minded individuals in micro-spaces that they believe can offer better security and a sense of community.

The omnipotence of social media is infiltrating all aspects of life, making advertising ever more ubiquitous. Two studies have found that, while the constant exposure is frustrating for the majority, a sizeable number still attest to ads introducing them to brands they wouldn’t usually come across.

A survey of 14- to 25-year-olds has revealed that the majority of young social media users in England want their profiles to be automatically private. The study, which focused on mental health, highlighted this group's desire for better protections from addictive social media practices and cyberbullying.

The ‘Stories’ features on Instagram and Snapchat have proven popular among users for their impermanence, authenticity, and behind-the-scenes nature. But how exactly are they being used by brands, celebrities and regular people? And how are these temporary digital tales evolving?