Children must have the necessary skills to deal with online risks, the Office of the Commissioner for Children has said.
The 6th of February marks Safer Internet Day - a day celebrated worldwide. "Like in previous years, the theme for this important day is 'Together for a Better Internet'. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to join together and play their part in creating a better internet for everyone particularly children and young people. We should continue to strive to ensure that children use the internet responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively."
"Children spend a lot of time online, they use the internet for school, entertainment, to get information and to be in contact with families and friends. Even though the internet offers many benefits, children are exposed to various risks online including excessive use; exposure to harmful content; sexual exploitation and abuse; cyberbullying; and misuse of their private information."
"We must ensure that children encounter positive online experiences and that they have the necessary skills to deal with online risks," it said.
The Office of the Commissioner for Children said that it is committed to creating a better internet for children and forms part of the BeSmartOnline! campaign together with FSWS (Foundation for Social Welfare Services), the Directorate for Learning and Assessment Programmes within the Ministry for Education and the Cyber Crime Unit within the Malta Police Force.
"This initiative aims to safeguard children online through awareness raising and by offering help and support. To commemorate this important day several initiatives are being undertaken. Many schools have committed themselves to celebrate this day by organising various activities with the support of the BeSmartOnline! Team."
Schools and other organisations have access to a toolkit, consisting of lesson plans and other resources, developed by the BeSmartOnline team.
This year a video and other resources have been distributed in all schools dealing with the issue of digital footprint and the trail that children leave online. "This topic was highlighted by the Youth Panel coordinated by the Office of the Commissioner for Children. The video was produced by members of the Youth Panel. As parts of its efforts to create awareness about the safe use of the internet, the BeSmartOnline! team will be setting up an information stand in Valletta (next to the Parliament) on the 13th of February between 9am and 1pm. Activities for children will also be organised.
"Children and their parents/guardians are encouraged to visit this stand to obtain more information about the wise use of technology. For more support and guidance regarding online safety for children one can visit www.besmartonline.org.mt or call the support line 179. Abuse that takes place online should be reported through www.childwebalert.gov.mt"