Nowadays, the use of the Internet has increasingly become a part of our life. Without it you can’t function, almost as though it is a body organ. From children to adults, people everywhere are addicted to their phones and the Internet because of how much it has to offer. However, it is a double-edged sword. It opens us up to a world of possibilities, but it also comes with its risks.
With young people having access to smartphones and devices at such an early age, it can have a major impact on their habits and behaviors. Safer Internet Day promotes responsible and safer use of online technology by children and young people around the globe, and is celebrated in almost 200 countries around the world.
Let’s dive in to know the importance and how you can play your part in keeping the Internet safer.
What is the Main Purpose?
Safer Internet Day has become a source of information and awareness-building around online safety. The main purpose behind celebrating Safer Internet Day is to educate children and adults about emerging and current online issues worldwide.
Why is Safer Internet Day celebrated?
Safer Internet Day helps to spread awareness across the world and to ensure that safety and protection are a top priority against the negativity that exists on the internet. Safe internet can be a source of a better future for children who, in this day and age, are guaranteed to have exposure to the online universe. Being informed makes it easier to combat cyberbullying, victim blaming, sexual exploitation, harassment and more. Whether you are a teen, a teacher or a parent, it is important to understand safe Internet exposure and communication around the issues associated with it.
How Can You Play Your Role in Promoting Internet Safer Day?
There’s no exact science for how you can do your part to help create a safe Internet space. If you are a parent, it will be important to learn about the various risks and rewards of your child online access. You may want to oversee what they are up to, who they are communicating with, and which apps or platforms they are on. Then, consider having ongoing conversations with them about safe Internet practices and best protocol so they too understand any potential risks and when to ask for help or notify an adult.
- Promote a better and safer internet among kids and students
It is important for children and students to have a clear understanding of Internet safety. Safer Internet Day provides the tools and resources for better Internet know-how and helps children and students learn these skills more efficiently. The presentations and knowledge shared on Safer Internet Day are a source of education on how to best behave online and use the Internet in a positive way.
- Promote photo-sharing responsibly
With the fast-moving nature of the Internet, it has become easier to socialize with more people from anywhere in the world. You can share pictures, videos, memes and more, and there is always the possibility that something could go viral whether you mean it to or not. Because of this, photo-sharing can be dangerous if your intention is to keep it private or if it is malintentioned. Photos or videos should never be shared online if you would not be ok with them getting out and being seen by the masses. It’s something you can’t undo, once it’s done there is no going back.
- Initiate a conversation on consent in schools
Consent is a priority and it’s everyone’s responsibility to ask for consent even when it comes to someone’s online privacy. It is crucial to have conversations that address topics such as victim blaming, sexting, media influence, as well as sexting.
Final Thoughts
Safer Internet Day helps people everywhere learn how to make safe use of the Internet, knowing that the Internet is an integral part of our lives which provides many positive opportunities. So be alert and be safe.
