National Internet Safety Day

A diverse group of people, dressed stylishly in trendy outfits, standing together and using laptops and smartphones safely, in an urban setting with a beautiful skyline.. — National internet safety day illustration

Welcome to National Internet Safety Day! Get ready to unlock the secrets of the World Wide Web, protect yourself from cyber villains, and browse the internet like a pro. National Internet Safety Day is all about raising awareness of online safety and ensuring everyone knows how to navigate the digital realm safely and securely.

When is Internet Safety Day?

It's national internet safety day on the 9th February.

Staying Safe in Cyber Space

With the vast expanse of the internet at our fingertips, it's crucial to prioritize our safety online. From protecting our personal information to avoiding scams, there are some fundamental rules to follow:

Keep your passwords strong and secure. And please, no 'password123'—that's more predictable than next week's weather forecast!
Be cautious while clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files. Remember, not everything on the internet is as innocent as a basket of kittens!
Guard your personal information like your grandma guards her secret cookie recipe. Sharing too much online can have devastating consequences. Did you really need to share your entire life story just to sign up for that favorite online forum?

The Birth of National Internet Safety Day

Did you know that National Internet Safety Day was officially recognized on February 9th, 2016? This important day was established to promote the responsible use of the internet, protect online users from cyber threats, and educate individuals on digital privacy. With 18 mentions online, it's clear that people value their online safety now more than ever!

History behind the term 'Internet Safety'

1971

ARPANET's Early Days

The term 'internet safety' originated during the early days of ARPANET, the precursor to the modern internet. In 1971, the first email was sent using ARPANET, which connected various computers at research institutions. As the network grew, concerns about privacy and security arose, leading to discussions about the need for measures to protect users' data and ensure their safety while using the network.

1983

TCP/IP and the Birth of the Internet

In 1983, TCP/IP, the protocol that forms the backbone of the internet, was standardized. This milestone marked the birth of the modern internet as we know it. With this development, the term 'internet safety' gained increased relevance as more people started using the interconnected network. As the internet expanded, so did the need to address the potential risks and threats that came along with it, such as viruses, hacking attempts, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

1990

The World Wide Web Emerges

In 1990, the World Wide Web was introduced to the public by Tim Berners-Lee. This revolutionary system of interlinked hypertext documents allowed for easy access to information and paved the way for the internet to become a global phenomenon. With the rapid growth of the web, concerns about internet safety became even more pressing. People needed to learn how to navigate the online world safely, protect their personal information, and avoid falling victim to online scams.

1994

Creation of the First Internet Safety Programs

As the internet became increasingly accessible to the general public, the need for education and awareness about internet safety became paramount. In 1994, various organizations and initiatives started developing the first internet safety programs. These programs aimed to teach individuals, especially children and young adults, about safe internet use, responsible online behavior, and how to protect themselves from online threats.

2004

Safer Internet Day

In 2004, the concept of promoting internet safety on a global scale took a significant step forward with the establishment of Safer Internet Day. This annual event, organized by the European Union's INSAFE network, aims to raise awareness about internet safety and encourage individuals, schools, and organizations worldwide to participate in activities promoting a safer online environment. Safer Internet Day continues to be celebrated every year, highlighting the ongoing importance of internet safety in the digital age.

Did you know?

Did you know that the term 'phishing' doesn't just refer to catching fish? It's also a devious practice used by cyber criminals to trick unsuspecting internet users into revealing sensitive information. So be careful, because not every email is from a friendly prince in a far-off land!