The EU celebrates the Safer Internet Day 2012

On 7th February, more than 100 events in 30 European countries will encourage children, their families and teachers, to discover the digital world together on the Safer Internet Day 2012. INSAFE, the network of Safer Internet Centres funded by the Commission is coordinated the events celebrated this year under the theme: linking up generations for a safer digital world.

The Safer Internet Day 2012 is celebrated on 7th February in 30 European countries throughout events that will encourage children, their families and teachers, to discover the digital world together. This year's safer Internet Day campaign is focused on connecting generations, "Discover the digital world together…safely". According to the Commission, tech-savvy youngsters can teach older generations how to use new technologies, while parents and grandparents draw on their life experiences to advise younger generations on how to stay safe online. On the other hand, MEPs recently called for adequate EU funding to combat violence against women, children and young people especially new forms of violence linked to the growing use of online social networks, such as threats, psychological pressures, bullying or internet child pornography.

The events celebrated in Europe for the occasion are coordinated by INSAFE, the network of Safer Internet Centres funded by the Commission through the €55 million Safer Internet Programme. For instance, this year's events include an online test for parents in Austria (testing their reactions to different situations related to their kids' use of online technologies); in France a new game for 7-12 year olds featuring the online adventures of Vinz and Lou, a "most responsible school" competition in Slovakia and surveys, information packs for pupils, parents and teachers, and awareness raising in all participating countries.

According to the latest EU kids online survey, 77% of 13-16 year olds and 38% of 9-12 year olds in Europe who use the Internet say they have a profile on a social networking site. However, children's apparent level of online experience is not always matched by confidence or skill. Evidence suggests that both children and adults turn to their family and friends when they need help in the online world.