Selena Gomez calls social media dangerous: 'It just scares me'

May 15 (UPI) -- Selena Gomez says social media is a dangerous influence in modern society.

The 26-year-old singer and actress discussed the effect of Twitter and Instagram on young people while promoting her film The Dead Don't Die Wednesday at the Cannes Film Festival.

"Our world is going through a lot," Gomez said at a press conference. "I would say, for my generation specifically, social media has really been terrible.

"It does scare me when you see how exposed these young boys and young girls are. They are not aware of the news," she added. "It's dangerous for sure. I don't think people are getting the right information sometimes."

Gomez boasts more than 150 million Instagram followers, but said she's become increasingly selective in what she posts.

"It's impossible to make it safe at this point," she said. "I don't do a lot of pointless pictures -- I like to be intentional with it. It just scares me, that's all. I see young girls at meet-and-greets, and they're just devastated, dealing with bullying and not able to have their own voices."

"[Social media] can be great in moments, but I'd just be careful and allow yourself some time limits -- when to use it, and when you shouldn't," she advised.

Gomez took a three-month hiatus from social media in 2018 amid health issues and her treatment at a mental health facility. She thanked fans for their love and support in an Instagram post in January.

"Last year was definitely a year of self-reflection, challenges and growth. It's always those challenges which show you who you are and what you are capable of overcoming. Trust me, it's not easy, but I am proud of the person I am becoming and look forward to the year ahead," the singer said.

The Dead Don't Die is directed by Jim Jarmusch and co-stars Adam Driver, Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton and Chloe Sevigny. The movie opens in theaters June 14.

Moments from the Cannes Film Festival

Michael Moore arrives on the red carpet at the closing ceremony before the screening of the film "The Specials" on Saturday. Photo by David Silpa/UPI | License Photo