Safer Internet Day is a global initiative that takes place every year on the second Tuesday in February to raise awareness of safe internet use. It was first launched in 2004 and has since developed into an important event that encourages people around the world to reflect on their online activities and learn about data protection, cyberbullying and the dangers of the digital space.
Why is Safer Internet Day so important?
In a world that is becoming increasingly digitalized, the protection of personal data and online security has become a key issue. Each of us uses various digital services on a daily basis – from social networks to online shopping and banking. However, these activities also entail risks: cyberattacks, identity theft and unwanted data disclosure are just some of the dangers we are exposed to online.
Safer Internet Day is an opportunity to reflect on how we can better protect ourselves and our data. It reminds us that the digital world is constantly changing and that we need to keep adapting our knowledge and protective measures.
Topics of the Safer Internet Day 2025
Every year there is a special motto that accompanies Safer Internet Day. The 2025 motto is: “Uniting generations for a better internet”. It is intended to promote cooperation between different age groups and social classes and emphasize the digital responsibility of everyone involved. It is particularly important that younger people also learn how to use the internet safely at an early age.
This is not just about the question of how to protect your personal data, but also about topics such as:
- Cyberbullying: How to protect yourself from online harassment and what to do if you are affected.
- Digital footprints: How our behavior leaves traces online and what consequences this can have.
- Fake news: The spread of fake news and how to recognize reliable sources.
- Data protection: What each of us can do to secure our personal information and protect our privacy.
How can you get involved?
Everyone can do something to support Safer Internet Day and raise awareness of online safety. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Educate people: Talk to friends, family or colleagues about the importance of internet safety. Parents in particular can talk to their children about how to stay safe online.
- Increase your own security: Check your privacy settings on social networks, update your passwords and activate two-factor authentication if possible.
- Act responsibly: Be aware of how you handle your own data and be careful when sharing information online. Make sure that you visit trustworthy websites and use secure payment methods.
- Attend events: Many organizations and schools offer special events on Safer Internet Day. Here you can find out more about internet safety and talk to experts.
In a nutshell
Safer Internet Day is an annual reminder of how important it is to stay safe in the digital world. It shows us that protecting our data and taking responsibility when using the internet depends not only on technology experts, but on each and every one of us. So let’s get involved and help make the internet a safer place for us all.
