Safer Internet Day 2024

Safer Internet Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday of February every year to raise awareness about making the digital world safer for everyone. In 2024, this day is being celebrated on 6th February. Using the internet comes with many downsides, as multiple people fall victim to cyber crimes, bullying and data theft every year. This day aims to teach people, mainly the younger generation to stay safe while using the internet. 

This day was initiated by the Safe Border project of the European Union in 2004. The Insafe Network of Awareness Centres took over the responsibility of organising this day worldwide in 2005. This was to emphasise the importance of internet safety and responsible usage. In 2012, the United States of America (USA) officially adopted the Safer Internet Day, and it is now celebrated by multiple countries worldwide. 

Some tips on how to detect and stay safe from online fraud are mentioned below: 

• Use a secure internet connection and refrain from using public Wi-Fis. 
• Use strong passwords which comprise a mix of upper-case and lower-case letters, numbers and signs. 
• Do not click on links sent by unknown numbers and accounts. 
• Do not share personal or sensitive information on the internet.
• Install a good antivirus application to your device and keep it updated.

The theme for Safer Internet Day 2024 is ‘Together for a Better Internet’, which revolves around promoting a secure online environment for all users, especially children and the younger generation. We should celebrate this day by being mindful and responsible while using the internet and teaching others how to use it safely.