The Internet has become a part of our lifestyle. Whether we access it for news, networking, entertainment or recreation, we are connected. In 2021, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimated that 63% of the world’s population used the internet.
Young people need continuous guidance. As adults occupying various roles in the life of a teenager, from parents to teachers, it is our duty to help them understand and learn how to use the Internet correctly and responsibly. A 2019 Save the Children study showed that 96% of young Romanians between 12 and 17 years old access the Internet using their mobile phone and 27% spend over 6 hours online on a typical school day.
Together with the Internal Security Fund, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police, we want to inform young people about how they can safely continue their activity in the online environment. The study “Risks and vulnerabilities of students in the online environment” conducted by the Romanian Police found that 38% of children accidentally encountered pornography while surfing the internet. But what should pupils do to avoid becoming a victim?
- Check each online group before accepting their invitation;
- not send images / videos of intimate situations;
- limit access to their profiles;
- report inappropriate images;
- ask for help if they are threatened.
During the personal development course “Lifestyle”, our speaker Cristina Gheorghe discussed with specialists from the local police about how young people can protect their lifestyle online as well.
