In 2004, a Brussels based non-profit organisation launched ‘Safer Internet Day’. Insafe, funded by EU (European Council), is also a part of the EU, launched this annual event. It is now celebrated on the second Tuesday of February in more than 100 countries.
This year U.S. Safer Internet Day is going to take place at Facebook headquarters in Silicon Valley with remarks by well known personalities as California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris, National PTA president Otha Thorton and Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg. There are three panels:
- Beyond Bulling: Dealing with Trolling & Social Cruelty
- Using Technology to Effect Social Change
- Wrapping It All Up: A Conversation with Industry Leaders
It is noticeable that the leaders taking part in this event are from Facebook, Instagram, Google and Yahoo.
The event’s live streaming is ongoing.
The interesting things about this day is number of tech companies that are putting their differences aside for a day and focusing on safety, integrity, privacy and security measures. Sponsors include many big names as Google, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Lifelock, Trend Micro, Symantec and Yahoo. Apart from this main attraction are non-profit organizations including National PTA, National Centre for Missing & Exploited Children, National 4H, iKeepSafe and Family Online Safety Institute.
The reason to call this day ‘Safer Internet Day’ hides in its purpose. The more noticeable part is the use of ‘Safer’ rather than ‘Safer’. As it is known that there is no way to guarantee absolute safety or security. But it is possible to work together to create a safer and better internet. There’s a role for everyone, whether you are an adult, a user, a kid or an active contributor. It is essential to watch over the activity on the Internet. With continuous monitoring and by thinking before use or a click can prevent you from many hazards. Stay alert and be safe!
