Every February, Safer Internet Day is observed to raise awareness of the value of a secure and enjoyable online experience among all people, particularly children and young people. This EU-wide campaign, which falls on Tuesday, February 8th, aims to make the internet a safer place for all users, with a special emphasis on kids and teenagers. Its objective is to increase understanding of the vital significance of internet safety. Everybody is welcome to join us at this annual event, which unites parents, businesses, educators, legislators, and children under the motto “Together for a better internet.” Don’t forget to put Tuesday, February 6, 2024, on your calendars as Safer Internet Day 2024.
Safer Internet Day: History
The European Union’s Safer Internet Program, which was introduced in 1999, is the source of Safer Internet Day. The program’s goal was to encourage responsible and safer internet usage, particularly among kids and teenagers.
In 2004, the idea for Safer Internet Day first surfaced as a result of the EU SafeBorders project. Then, the EU-funded group of organisations called Insafe Network stepped up to take up the campaign, with the goal of encouraging responsible online conduct and internet safety. Safer Internet Day was first observed in 2005, and around Europe, events and activities were planned to increase public awareness of online safety concerns.
Since then, Safer Internet Day has expanded to become an international event observed in about 200 nations and territories. Every year, a different issue pertaining to online safety is highlighted, with the goal of involving a range of stakeholders in the promotion of a safer and more positive online environment for all users, including government organisations, educators, parents, and business leaders.
Safer Internet Day: Theme of the Year
The global celebration of Safer Internet Day (2024) will centre around the theme of “Inspiring Change: Making a Difference, Managing Influence, and Navigating Change Online.” This subject emphasises the value of giving people the tools they need to make positive changes in the digital world, but it also stresses the necessity of exercising caution when navigating online influences.
Who has initiated Safer Internet Day?
Safer Internet Day has become a major occasion on the calendar for internet safety over time. Originating in the EU SafeBorders initiative in 2004 and adopted by the Insafe network in 2005, it has expanded beyond its initial parameters to encompass over 190 nations and territories worldwide.
Safer Internet Day continues to highlight new challenges and urgent concerns related to social networking, cyberbullying, and digital identity, with the goal of raising awareness and promoting safer online experiences for everyone.
How is it celebrated?
We should be proactive and improve our internet safety procedures to commemorate the anniversary. It is essential to comprehend how to handle instances of cyberbullying. Developing relationships and conversing with people around the world about common interests is also essential. Identity and personal data security is still critical. Encouraging online safety should be a continuous endeavour rather than something that happens today.
It is imperative to support parents in having continuous, honest conversations regarding internet usage with their kids. It’s important to talk about the benefits and dangers of engaging in online activity.
In summary, the internet improves our lives by providing chances for networking, learning, and creativity, but it also has drawbacks of its own. Thus, it is essential to maintain vigilance and place a high priority on safety.
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