Why is it important to pay attention to our digital footprint? This topic was the main topic of this year's Safer Internet Day (SID)in the Czech Republic. SID is celebrated every year around the world, drawing attention to the importance of online security. This year it fell on 11 February, and in the Czech Republic, a day-long programme was held on 10 February in cooperation with CZ.NIC and the Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic, as well as other institutions and organisations.

Key topics and recommendations 

The morning part of the event included a press conference, where experts presented current challenges and successes in the field of internet security, cybersecurity, and prevention of cybercrime. The discussion not only focused on current trends and online threats but also on the importance of effective prevention and education.

One of the main topics was the digital footprint and includes the traces, fingerprints, information, and data that users leave behind on the internet. The panellists addressed questions such as: How to navigate online safely? How to minimise the risks associated with a digital footprint? And above all, how to protect our children's digital footprint? What should parents know?

One of the important points was the topic of sharenting: sharing photos and information about children on social networks. Parents often publish pictures of their children from birth without realising the possible risks. Experts made a few recommendations:

• Let's think about whether it is really necessary to publish every photo of our child.
• Let's ensure and verify our privacy and sharing settings on social networks.
• Let's talk to our children about what is appropriate to share and what is not - let's be the best role models for them.
• Let's maintain a "balance" with our digital footprint.
• Let's keep our digital footprint safe.

How is technology changing security? 

Another big topic was the influence of artificial intelligence on the transformation of the digital footprint and security on the internet. AI is increasingly being used to analyse digital traces, but it also brings new threats, such as deepfake technology or more sophisticated cyberattacks.

Cooperation is key 

Safer Internet Day showed that cybersecurity is a topic that concerns us all: parents, children, schools, companies, and state institutions. Cooperation between CZ.NIC (guarantor of the Safer Internet Centre (CZ)) and state and public administration institutions, such as the Ministry of the Interior or the Police of the Czech Republic, contributes to better awareness and more effective prevention.

Each of us can contribute to a safer Internet, whether by sharing content responsibly, protecting our privacy, or educating ourselves and our children. The internet is an excellent space and tool when we move around safely.

Learn more about Safer Internet Day activities in Czech on their SID page on our platform!

Further information about the Czech Safer Internet Centre can be found on the Better Internet for Kids (BIK) public portal, including links to its national websites and other contact information. Similar information can be found on the BIK portal for all Safer Internet Centres in Europe.