What is Safer Internet Day
On Tuesday, 9 February 2021, we celebrate ‘Safer Internet Day’ with actions taking place right across the globe. With a theme of “Together for a better Internet”, the day calls upon all stakeholders to join together to make the internet a safer and better place for all, and especially for children and young people. From cyberbullying to social networking to digital identity, each year Safer Internet Day aims to raise awareness of emerging online issues and current concerns.
In this era of technology, the current generation relies on the internet for almost everything and thus, it has become a breeding ground for cybercriminals.
According to the L1ght, an organization that tracks online harassment, there has been a 70% increase in cyber- attacks due to work from home and several other factors and it is expected to rise further at an unprecedented rate in 2021.
It was first initiated in Europe in 2004 and by 2009, it had spread outside of Europe with the involvement of various committees and businesses worldwide. Currently, more than 150 countries celebrate Safer Internet Day globally.
Safer Internet Day can be celebrated by spreading awareness and by educating people on how to prepare and react when faced with cyber threats. Be sure to let kids know it is safe for them to be open about their problems. Many kids would rather endure the bullying than risk losing technology privileges and contact with their friends.
It is important that parents recognize that the risks associated with cyberbullying have greatly increased since the pandemic began. Because of this, always be aware that kids may be struggling silently.
Ask questions about their experiences and stay alert for signs of trouble.
WHAT CAN PARENTS DO
Now that many parents are working from home, they have more control because they are with or around their children more than ever. Young people are using social platforms like Tiktok, Zoom and others more frequently than in the past.
While there are benefits that can result from online interactions, like connecting kids to the outside world, it doesn’t eliminate the risks. Parents have the unique opportunity to be especially wary of what their kids are doing online and how their interactions on social media may be affecting them. Create guidelines: By limiting screen time, parents can curtail cyberbullying. This is not an easy step, but it can be done. Allocate time for family, games and other offline activities.
Talk about what’s happening: It is important to have honest conversations with kids/teens about what they are going through, especially during the pandemic. Times are very stressful for everyone, kids included. Talk about what that feels like for them or how it can be addressed.
Urge connections: Staying home and not seeing friends is especially difficult for children and teens, as they need those connections to grow and develop. Encourage them to use video chat platforms to stay connected with friends, provided it be in a healthy way.