Safer Internet Day—started in 2004 as an initiative by the EU SafeBorders project has turned into a global-level event celebrated every year in almost 170 nations. This day is celebrated every year on the second Tuesday of February, aiming to provide safe and better internet service and connection.
This year, Safer Internet Day will take place on 10th February with the theme ‘Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.’
As AI has become a crucial part of our lives, with many children and young people actively using it, they must hold the knowledge and skills to take the right step while using smart technology. The focus is not just on risks, although of course it is important to find them. Instead, the purpose is to emphasize how to take benefit from these developments with safety.
As a business owner, protecting your virtual presence is not just a growth strategy but a necessity. Safer Internet Day is a perfect reminder of why you should evaluate your digital security practices and take the essential steps to protect your business. With the right approach, you can significantly reduce the risks of threats and ensure a more secure digital presence for your business.
In this article, we are listing the 7 basic Internet safety rules to help safeguard your business on a virtual platform and ensure a thriving path:
- A Secure Web Gateway: The first step towards protecting your business from digital threats is a secure web gateway. It will filter malicious websites, prevent access to harmful content, and block malware from downloading on company devices.
- Strong Password Policy: Consider making your passwords long and complex, and use a phrase instead of a word. Your password policy should include 12 characters, a blend of numbers, symbols, and letters, and should be changed every 90 days.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: MFA adds an additional layer of security by asking users to verify their identity through text message or an authentication app.
- Encourage Virtual Private Networks: Use VPNs if you have remote employees or work from the Public WiFi networks. VPNs encrypt traffic on the internet and prevent hackers from intercepting sensitive data.
- Keeping Updating Your System: Regular system updates protect your operation from security threats. For this, you just need to turn on automatic updates, set a fixed time each month for manual update and maintain an inventory of all your software.
- Backup Data: Backups are the only solution when any problem occur whether due to a hardware failure, human error, or ransomware attack. With backups, you can begin your operation quickly.
- Train Your Team: Every team member should be regularly trained and get safe internet tips. With this, they will be aware of safe practices and can even address cyber attacks. Having the right knowledge and skills can make a significant difference in keeping your business secure online.
Wrapping Up…
With these safety tips, you can not only protect your business online but also make a notable contribution to fostering a safer internet. As we approach 10 February, let’s come together to empower young professionals and the future generation to thrive in an AI-powered world and make tech choices with safety. Also, take the opportunity to enhance your security measures and explore how you can make your business more protected and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Safer Internet Day celebrated?
Safer Internet Day is celebrated every year on the second Tuesday of February. This year, it will be celebrated on 11th February 2026.
Why is Safer Internet Day celebrated?
The purpose is to make people aware of internet safety threats and promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, mainly among children and young people.
What is the slogan for Safer Internet Day 2026?
The slogan for this year is ‘Smart tech, safe choices—Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.’
Who started Safer Internet Day?
Safer Internet Day was started by the Insafe network, a European network of awareness centers that promote Internet safety and digital literacy.