Safer Internet Day

Safer Internet Day History

Safer Internet Day seeks to promote the safe and responsible use of the internet and digital technology, especially among children and young people. It focuses on creating a better online environment by raising awareness of the potential risks faced by users while browsing the web. Key aspects of the observance include encouraging online safety education, promoting positive online behaviour, and informing the public about available resources to tackle cybercrime and other online threats.

Safer Internet Day was initiated by the European Commission in 2004, and has since been endorsed by more than 170 countries. With around 90% of UK households having internet access and a high percentage of children and young adults owning smartphones, it is crucial to educate users on the importance of online privacy, understanding social media etiquette, and reporting cyberbullying or inappropriate content.

Typical customs to mark Safer Internet Day in the UK involve schools, community organizations, and private companies hosting educational events and workshops for parents, teachers, and children, focused on digital safety and online etiquette. Public campaigns and resources are also launched on this occasion, offering practical guidance and support for navigating the online world safely. Safer Internet Day is typically celebrated on the second day of the second week of February.

Safer Internet Day Facts

• The theme for Safer Internet Day in 2024 was Inspiring change: Making a difference, managing influence and navigating change online.
• In 2023, Safer Internet Day had impacted more that 50% of children aged 8-17 and 37% of UK parents and carers.
• In 2023, the UK Government passed the Online Safety Act, which provides kids and parents with tools and transparency needed to protect against threats to children’s health and wellbeing online. This bill requires that online platforms provide an safe environment by default.
• 
  In 2023, the most popular platforms used by children in the UK were:
  1) YouTube
  2) WhatsApp
  3) TikTok
  The most popular online platform used by children in the United Kingdom in 2022 was YouTube.
• A concerning issue in the UK is online grooming, where adults build relationships with children online for inappropriate or abusive purposes. The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) reported a 32% rise in child grooming offenses in the past year.
• Cyberbullying is a growing problem in the UK. A study by the Ditch the Label charity found that 33% of young people surveyed had experienced cyberbullying incidents.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Safer Internet Day

Safer Internet Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Read through some top tips on using the internet safely .
• See how Safer Internet Day was celebrated around the world.
• Every year, Safer Internet Day has a theme around which various online campaigns are organized. You can participate in these campaigns to spread awareness.
• Test your knowledge with a Safer Internet Day quiz.
• Participate in online campaigns and challenges initiated by organizations like the UK Safer Internet Centre, Childnet International, or the NSPCC. These campaigns often involve sharing tips, resources, and raising awareness on social media platforms.
• Attend workshops organized by local authorities, charities, or organizations like the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) or the Internet Watch Foundation.