Internet has been one of the most transformative and fast-growing technologies across the world. Globally, the number of internet users increased from 413 million in the year 2000 to over 4.9 billion in 2021, which is almost two thirds of the world population. India is the second-largest population of internet users and it is estimated that this number will increase at an incredible rate in the next couple of years. The covid pandemic and the ever-increasing education technology space have given young children opportunities to use the internet for their academic and recreational purposes. Though the internet has enabled children to learn, create and share like never before, it also possesses a threat to their online safety. Cyber Security is an uprising issue in today’s age and no segment of society is left untouched by its unwanted consequences. Due to unawareness and sometimes out of curiosity, children across age groups get trapped in various cyber cases of abuse and threats. As per NCRB report, 52,974 cases were reported in 2021 for cybercrime, which is 5% higher than 2020 and 15% higher than 2019. From the context of children’s safety, 1102 cybercrimes were registered in 2020 which is around 4 times higher compared to the 305 cases in 2019. With the increase in the number of young internet users, the threat to child safety in cyber space is also increasing.

Every year, November 14 is celebrated as Children’s Day in India and November 20 is celebrated as International Children’s Day. November 19 is observed as world day for the prevention of child abuse. The third week of November is widely observed as Child Safety Week and these initiatives are earmarked days to dedicate our thoughts and efforts towards generating extensive awareness for children and creating a safer world for them. Tech Mahindra Foundation is committed to creating happier and safer classrooms by empowering teachers, administrators, and leaders for effective school governance. Safety of children is one of the non-negotiables for the Foundation. Acknowledging the increasing advantage of digital technology, the Foundation has regularly conducted Digital Literacy and Cyber Security Programs for teachers, school heads, administrators and other relevant stakeholders. This year, the Foundation had decided to take a step further by dedicating a discussion on online safety of children on 14th November 2022 which is celebrated as Children’s Day in India.