The 7th Safer Internet Day will be celebrated on 9th February 2010 in more than 60 countries across the world. This year the theme is
"Think Before You Post"
The growth of online tools like Facebook and Twitter provide a wealth of opportunities for young people to write about their lives, rant about any topic and, more importantly, a place where they can connect and share their lives with friends. Young people are enthusiastic about actively sharing personal information and opinion. Having a heightened need to communicate and to be included in
social networks, they willingly exploit these online facilities and push the boundaries of use to create virtual social networks.
Young people are increasingly exposing their own private lives to the eyes of others. This may be their friends, people they don't know, or even their future employers. They are also infringing upon the privacy of others by posting pictures of friends and family without their permission. The right to privacy is protected under Irish and international human rights law. It is important that all of us, but particulary young people, are aware of the privacy implications of online activities and protect ourselves against threats to our privacy.
As we feel our way in this massive social experiment, it is important to empower young people to be effective, autonomous and safe users of new media, to manage their online identity in a responsible way, and at the same time respect the privacy rights of their peers.
The NCTE, its partners in 27 national awareness centres across Europe, and its associates in 40 other countries will bring young people and adults together in local, regional, national and online events all around the world to raise awareness of online privacy issues.
How can you get involved?
Everyone can Primary Teachers canPost-Primary Teachers canParents of 7 to 12 year olds can- introduce your child to the key issues of online personal information protection in a fun way using the Chatwise Online Adventure.