The National Cybersecurity Authority and the FORTH Institute of Computer Science have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, laying the groundwork for a strategic and multi-level collaboration in the field of public awareness and education on cybersecurity.

Considering the challenges of the digital era and the growing threats in cyberspace, the two parties commit to the joint design and implementation of actions promoting the safe use of the internet and digital services, with particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable groups such as children, parents, and the elderly.

This collaboration is part of the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2020-2025, leveraging the valuable experience, international networks, and expertise of the Greek Safer Internet Centre of FORTH, which serves as the official representative of the European Insafe/INHOPE networks in Greece and is a member of the European Commission’s expert group on safer internet for children. The centre has proven capacity in designing and executing targeted awareness campaigns on online safety, especially for children and parents. At the same time, it has established cooperation with relevant national and European bodies, contributing substantially to the creation of a safer digital environment for all.

The main pillars of this collaboration include:

• Designing and implementing awareness programs through seminars, workshops, competitions, campaigns, and educational materials.
• Training students, educators, and parents to create digitally literate and protected citizens.
• Participating in ENISA initiatives, showcasing Greece as an active member of the European cybersecurity ecosystem.
• Joint participation in research projects and European initiatives in the field of digital security.

"The collaboration between scientific and institutional bodies is more necessary than ever in today’s digital environment, where cyberattacks are escalating at unprecedented speed. At the National Cybersecurity Authority, we invest in and promote synergies, believing that the only real defence against escalating cybercrime is cultivating a culture of cybersecurity among all citizens. The signing of this Memorandum with FORTH’s Institute of Computer Science marks an important step toward a safer and more digitally informed society. Through joint actions of awareness, training, and research, we strengthen citizens’ digital resilience – especially for the most vulnerable – while reinforcing Greece’s role in the European and international cybersecurity ecosystem. Our ultimate goal remains the establishment of cyber-resilience for all."
Michail Bletsas, Head of the National Cybersecurity Authority

"For decades, the Institute of Computer Science of FORTH has been a key pillar of research and innovation in computer science and digital technologies in Greece. The signing of this Memorandum with the National Cybersecurity Authority enhances our role in safeguarding the country’s digital ecosystem, through actions with tangible societal impact. This strategic partnership confirms the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for the effective promotion of cybersecurity at the national level."
Dimitrios Plexousakis, Director of the FORTH Institute of Computer Science

"The Greek Safer Internet Centre of FORTH is dedicated to cultivating digital awareness and responsible online behaviour, with a focus on children, parents, and educators. Our collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Authority represents an important step toward strengthening and expanding awareness activities, aiming for a society where everyone - and especially the most vulnerable - can navigate the digital world safely and confidently."
Paraskevi Fragopoulou, Scientific Coordinator of the Greek Safer Internet Centre

The Memorandum takes effect from the date of its signing and will last for three years, with the possibility of extension upon mutual agreement.

Find more information about the work of the Greek Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline, and youth participation services, or find similar information for other Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.