Facebook launches initiatives for a safer, better internet

© Karolina Grabowska via Pixabay

SaferInternetDay.org and Facebook launched a series of initiatives to help make the internet a safer and better place for people across Africa, especially children and the youth.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the people who use Facebook. Every day people come to Facebook to connect with people and issues they care about, and they should be able to do so in a safe, secure environment,” says Akua Gyekye, public policy manager, Facebook, Africa.

Facebook builds products that empower the community to stay in control, support each other during crises and stay safe online. Every Facebook product has privacy and security built into it to protect one's information.

Worldwide conversation

Over 100 countries are participating in an effort to start conversations and help people think about the small steps they can take to stay safe online. The joint Insafe/INHOPE network, with the support of the European Commission and national Safer Internet Centres, coordinates the initiative across Europe and beyond.

In Africa, Facebook is working with partners to ensure the safety and education of their communities and address the needs of vulnerable people.

• Watoto Watch in Kenya (http://WatotoWatchNetwork.org)
  
• International Center for Leadership Development (http://ICLDNG.org)
  
• Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre in Nigeria (www.W-TecOnline.org)
  
• South Africa’s Film and Publication Board (www.FPB.org.za)
  
• JOXAfrica Association in Senegal (http://APO.af/5xbshn)
  
• Tech Women Zimbabwe (www.TechWomenZim.com)
  
• J Initiative (http://JInitiative.org/blog/tag/ghana)
  
• Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (www.GISF.org.gh)

Facebook is providing financial and marketing support for them to use to raise awareness about online safety. Facebook also hosted an event in Johannesburg, South Africa and Nairobi, Kenya to promote the importance of online safety to students, teachers, parents and policymakers.

Everyone has a part to play

Gyekye says, “This is an opportunity to explore the role we all play in helping to create a better and safer online community. We are proud to work with young people, parents, carers, teachers, social workers, law enforcement, companies and policymakers to create a better internet.”

Facebook has redesigned its Safety Center, an engaging resource to help people get the information they need about controlling their information and staying safe. It walks you through the tools Facebook offers to control your experience as well as numerous tips and resources for safe and secure sharing. It is available in over 50 languages, is mobile friendly and includes step-by-step videos.

Source: APO