Safer Internet Day 2024
The internet is a vital resource for children and adults. In 2024, for Safer Internet Day celebrations, we will mark the eighteenth anniversary of this important day, which started in 2004 and has united internet users worldwide in a joint effort to promote safe and responsible use of online services for both children and adults alike. The pandemic brought a new way of life, and we understand how the internet dominated our existence. While it has been empowering everyone worldwide, we can’t deny the many hazards associated with it. Sign up today with PureVPN and enable a safer and protected online experience as the Safer Internet Day 2024 approaches. #SaferInternetDay #SID2024
History of Safer Internet Day
Safer Internet Day has been around for well over a decade. More commonly referred to as SID, it is part of a joint effort by the Insafe/INHOPE network. The purpose of this initiative is to educate children about the dangers they face every time they go online and how to use all the technology available to them responsibly.
In the UK, the UK Safer Internet Centre oversees the activities under the banner of SID. Different charities and forums such as the Internet Watch Foundation, the South West Grid for Learning, and Children International oversee other activities that aim to raise awareness about various aspects of being online.
Outside of the UK, several other European countries commemorate the day in their own way. The Safer Internet Day Committee, introduced in 2009, made it a truly global event. Over the years, it has proven to be a valuable resource for parents in keeping their children safe when browsing the internet online.
Safer Internet Day in 2024
#SaferInternetDay #SID2024
Safer Internet Day is an international day of action that brings together government, business, educational institutions, young people, and the not-for-profit sector to promote safer and more responsible use of online technology. The day was established in 2004 by the European Union’s Connecting for Good program to encourage young people to use technology positively and safely, particularly on the internet. The day aims to promote access to information and communication technologies for all, especially young people, focusing on safety. It also helps adults and children deal responsibly with digital technology in their lives to benefit from it ultimately.
Why is it so important?
In 2024, being aware of the many hazards associated with the internet has become even more critical than before. The unprecedented growth in the popularity of social media has created many new challenges for online safety. Social media has provided new opportunities for youngsters and adults, empowering and giving them improved access to information and ways to connect. However, the increased risks are linked with these activities, such as cyberbullying, ransomware, malware, security breaches of personal data, and much more.
Knowing that the internet is a large and ever-growing body of information that can be accessed by anyone with a computer, smart device, or internet connection, it’s equally important to learn about its safety. Fortunately, there are many valuable resources available for parents who can educate their children on all forms of potential threats online so they can adequately protect them.
Safer Internet Centre & PureVPN
PureVPN takes great pride in being an official SID supporter. It has partnered with the UK Safer Internet Centre to spread Safer Internet Day’s message and educate the masses about keeping themselves safe online.
PureVPN’s commitment to the cause is reflected in the plethora of useful resources published over the years. These resources help educate the laymen about what exact threats they face, how to avoid them, and how to get rid of them if they ever fall prey to them.
Additionally, we’ve taken a giveaway/gift approach to encourage conversations online as we believe the dialogue between users is vital to increase each user’s safety on the internet.
Internet Safety Issues You Should Know
As mentioned earlier, cybercriminals are becoming smarter, and so are their methods. You must be aware of the threats you face online if you are to avoid them. Some of the most common ones you’re likely to be vulnerable to include:
- Malware:Malware is malicious software that’s been designed to access and collect your personal information behind your back. These can include viruses, spyware, worms, trojans, ransomware, etc.
- Phishing: This is where a hacker might try to gain access to your data by posing to be a legitimate organization. They operate via fake SMS alerts, emails, phone calls, and even websites.
- Cyberbullying: The popularity of social media means that anyone can talk to anyone. Some individuals use this as a means to harass, bully, and stalk others online.
Internet Safety Tips For Your Kids
Your children are highly vulnerable online. They face threats that are often unique to them and leave them compromised if you don’t take proper precautions. Here’s the best way to handle some of the most prominent threats your children face on the internet:
- If you’re using a public computer, always log out once you’re done.
- While using Google, have Safe Search enabled to avoid explicit search results.
- Be careful not to disclose sensitive information in chat rooms, emails, or social media sites.
- Do not agree to meet up with a stranger face-to-face.
Internet Safety Tips To Protect Yourself
Just like kids, adults are similarly vulnerable online. The threats they face can leave their personal info and their finances in disarray if they’re not careful. So, here are some of the most significant threats to be wary of.
- When browsing to new websites, take a look at the padlock on the left of the address bar. It should always read “https.”
- Keep your firewall updated to avoid having your system compromised.
- Never allow remote access to anyone online unless they’re from a trusted source.
- Only provide your email address to a service if it’s absolutely necessary.
Some final words
As the celebration for Safer Internet Day approaches, it serves as a constant reminder of how we’ve advanced in technology. While most of this technology has benefited us in many ways, it has also made us more prone and vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
The goal of this day is to raise awareness about internet safety and security and encourage safe and responsible use of digital technology among individuals, organizations, and businesses across the globe. It is important to remember that many of these dangers are easily preventable with the proper knowledge and precautions. This year’s theme, ‘Play Your Part for a #SaferInternet,’ is based on the idea that everyone must play their part to help keep themselves and others safe online.