Online Security Talks in Malta
As digital technology becomes increasingly embedded in the daily lives of children and adolescents, the importance of online safety education has grown significantly. In Malta, educational institutions and stakeholders recognised the need for young students to equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
The primary objectives of the Online Security Talks are to:
- Raise awareness of the risks and challenges associated with using the internet.
- Educating students on how to protect their personal data and maintain online privacy.
- Empower students to recognise and respond effectively to issues such as phishing, and exposure to inappropriate content.
- Encourage a culture of digital responsibility and respectful online communication.
- Involve parents and educators in supporting and reinforcing safe online behaviour.
The sessions are designed to address real-world digital experiences, with a particular focus on online gaming environments that children commonly engage with—such as Roblox and Minecraft. The content is designed to help students make safe and informed decisions while interacting on these platforms.
Key topics include:
- Acknowledge and prevent phishing scams
- Create strong and secure passwords
- Securely interact with foreigners online
- Understand responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in digital spaces
- Protection of personal information on platforms
One of the main challenges is to ensure that content remains relevant in the face of fast-evolving digital platforms and trends. Another critical view is the value of involving parents and guardians. When online safety messages are reinforced at home, the impact of school-based sessions is significantly enhanced.
Why is this a good practice?
This good practice highlights the structured delivery of Online Security Talks targeting students from 4 to 9 years of age (age 8–14). The initiative promotes the safe, respectful and informed use of digital platforms through engaging, age-appropriate and interactive sessions.
Delivery of the sessions is interactive to maintain student engagement. These talks showed significant positive results:
- Students show more awareness of online threats and greater responsibility in their digital behaviour.
- Improved confidence in reporting concerns and seeking support for adults.
- Increased understanding of safe gaming practices and the use of social media.
The structured delivery of Online Security Talks has proven to be an effective and valuable practice in enhancing students’ digital awareness and resilience. These sessions prepare students not only to protect themselves online but also to behave ethically and respectfully in digital spaces.
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