Safer Internet Day: Safeguarding in an Age of AI, Cyber and Online Fraud

Safer Internet Day takes place on 10 February, providing an important opportunity to reflect on how we safeguard people in an increasingly digital society. From children and young people in education settings to older adults and vulnerable groups, online safety is no longer optional. It is a core safeguarding responsibility.

Technological developments, particularly the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI), bring new opportunities but also introduce new risks. At AJC, we recognise that safeguarding must keep pace with technological change to ensure people of all ages can use the internet safely, confidently and responsibly.

AI and Online Safety

AI tools are now widely used to support learning, communication and everyday tasks. However, AI-generated content and deepfakes can make it increasingly difficult to distinguish between what is real and what is false.

Criminals are already using AI to create convincing scams, impersonations and fraudulent communications. Children, young people and older adults may be particularly vulnerable to this type of misinformation.

For schools, parents, carers and professionals, understanding these risks is essential. Clear guidance, supervision and education around digital literacy play a vital role in reducing harm and building confidence online.

Cyber Security as a Safeguarding Issue

Cyber security is not just a technical concern. Weak cyber practices and poor processes can directly expose individuals and organisations to fraud and abuse.

Good cyber hygiene includes:

• Using strong, unique passwords
• Enabling multi-factor authentication where available
• Keeping devices and software up to date
• Being cautious when opening links, emails or attachments

Schools, colleges, charities and community organisations all have an important role to play in embedding safe online behaviours and reinforcing them regularly.

Fraud Awareness and Protection

Online fraud continues to rise and affects people of all ages. However, young people and older adults are often at greater risk, either due to limited awareness of scam tactics or misplaced trust in digital communications.

Common methods used by criminals include phishing messages, fake social media accounts, fraudulent adverts, competitions and investment scams. Effective safeguarding means helping people recognise warning signs and feel confident questioning unexpected requests and reporting concerns without fear or embarrassment.

The Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign supports individuals and organisations across the UK in protecting themselves against financial fraud. Its key message, Stop, Challenge and Protect, provides a simple framework for identifying and responding to suspicious activity. Free resources are available to support awareness and education across different settings

Data Protection and Personal Information

Personal data is valuable, and protecting it should be treated as a safeguarding priority. When personal information is mishandled or compromised, the consequences can include financial loss, identity theft and emotional distress.

Strong data protection practices include limiting the sharing of personal information, using privacy settings appropriately, and understanding how data is collected, stored and used. For organisations, lawful and secure handling of information is essential to protecting both individuals and trust.

Education and Confidence

At AJC, we believe effective safeguarding is built on education and awareness. Safer Internet Day is not only about highlighting risks, but also about building confidence and resilience in responding to them.

Digital safeguarding education should be age appropriate, practical and regularly updated to reflect emerging threats. It should also involve parents, carers, educators and professionals working together to provide consistent support.

AJC’s Commitment

AJC supports organisations in understanding and responding to modern safeguarding risks, including those linked to AI, cyber security, fraud prevention and data protection.

As technology continues to evolve, safeguarding must evolve with it. This Safer Internet Day, we encourage organisations and individuals to focus on protecting people, not just systems, and to promote safe, responsible use of the digital world

Contact us on 020 7101 4861 or email us at info@ajollyconsulting.co.uk if you think we can help.