Safer Internet Day (SID) is annually observed across the globe on the 2nd Day (Tuesday) of the 2nd week of February to raise awareness of emerging online issues and current concerns and to promote the safe and positive use of digital technology for children and young people.
- The day aims to inspire a national conversation about using technology responsibly, respectfully, critically, and creatively.
Safer Internet Day 2023 is observed on 7th February 2023, marking the 20th edition of SID.
- The 19th Edition of SID, SID 2022 was observed on 8th February 2022.
- The 21st Edition of SID, SID 2024 will be observed on 13th February 2024.
The theme of SID 2023 is “Together for a better internet“. This has been the campaign slogan of SID since 2019.
Significance of SID:
i. Safer Internet Day aims to increase awareness and start a discussion on online safety, especially among young people who may not be fully equipped on how to use the internet safely.
ii. SID 2023 aims to enhance internet security by educating digital citizens and raising awareness about cybersecurity.
Background:
i. Safer Internet Day was initiated in 2004 by the EU SafeBorders Project and was later adopted by the Insafe network of European Safer Internet Centres (SICs) in 2005.
ii. The day is now celebrated in approximately 180 countries and territories worldwide.
iii. The 1st ever Safer Internet Day was observed on 6th February 2004. By then, 14 countries (13 European countries and Australia) celebrated the day.
Importance of safer internet:
i. As technology and the internet are used more frequently, it is crucial to make sure that everyone, especially children, is protected online.
ii. The most common cyber threats include Hacking, Phishing, identity theft (both physical and digital), data theft, cyber-attacks through malware or hacking, cyber predators, and Distributed denial of service (DDOS) attacks against websites,
Event:
i. The UK Safer Internet Centre organises Safe Internet Day celebrations in the United Kingdom (UK).
ii. Many regional and national organisations come together for this event to spread awareness of the best ways to safeguard online safety.
- Theme ‘Want to talk about it? Making space for conversations about life online’
Safer Internet Day 2023 Education Resources:
i. UK Safer Internet Centre has developed educational resources to assist organisations like libraries, police services, schools, and youth groups in organising exciting events for Safer Internet Day.
ii. These educational resources, which are available for free download and are geared towards children and young people aged 3 to 18, are designed to place children’s and young people’s voices at the forefront of the campaign and encourage them to help define the future of online safety assistance.
