Tuesday, February 11th marks Safer Internet Day 2020 with millions of people across the globe uniting to inspire positive change online. This year’s campaign theme is “Together for a better internet”. Virgin Media is delighted to support the campaign which calls on everyone to join together and play their part in creating a better, safer internet for all.

 

On Safer Internet Day, Virgin Media is playing its role to put the spotlight on several topics that concern young people, parents, guardians and educations. As part of the campaign, Virgin Media is hosting an expert panel discussion to highlight issues including young people’s digital footprint, advice for keeping safe online, age appropriateness and the importance of privacy online.

 

Virgin Media is proud to announce it has teamed up with former Love Island star Yewande Biala, who will join a special panel to discuss internet safety on Ireland AM on February 11th. Yewande will be joined by Áine Lynch from the National Parents Council and member of the Internet Safety Advisory Council, and Dr. Brian O’Neill, member of Ireland's Internet Safety Advisory Council and Director of Research at TU Dublin.

 

Yewande will talk openly about how she has overcome negativity online following her appearance on last year’s series of Love Island and her words of advice to other young people on facing the challenges of social networks.

 

Áine Lynch will speak about young people’s digital footprint and safer internet seminars which the NPC delivers throughout Ireland. Dr O’Neill will talk about the genesis of Safer Internet Day and recent research which indicated there is an increasing rise of adults encountering negative experiences online.

 

Speaking ahead of Safer Internet Day Áine Lynch, CEO of the National Parents Council Primary, and member of the Internet Safety Advisory Council said, “I am delighted to be joining the panel to discuss the challenges and unwanted experiences that internet use can sometimes bring. Safer Internet Day is an opportunity for everyone to re-examine how they interact with the internet, and ensure they are taking appropriate steps to ensure privacy and security online.”

 

Dr. Brian O’Neill, Director of Research at TU Dublin said, “Safer Internet Day is a great time for us all to take a closer look at the relationship we have with the internet and how it affects our lives. Research is increasingly showing that adults, as well as young people, are struggling with negative online experiences. I’m excited to join the panel to discuss these issues, and how we can ensure a safer, happier internet for everyone.”

 

Safer Internet Day infographic

 

ENDS