In a recent release, the DQ Institute highlights a growing concern: the "persistent cyber-pandemic" - a reference to the consistent exposure of children and adolescents to online cyber-risk. The revelation comes following the study's findings from the recent 2023 Child Online Safety Index (COSI) report. Nonetheless, the report provides hope with action plans and solutions, as well as collaborative measures to tackle this problem.
Recognizing the Persistent Cyber-Pandemic
The 2023 COSI report reiterates what Dr. Yuhyun Park, the founder of the DQ Institute, calls a "persistent cyber-pandemic". Almost 70% of children and young adults aged 8-18 have experienced at least one form of cyber-risk in the past year. Despite technological advancements like AI and the metaverse altering children's digital landscape, minimal discussion revolves around their potential hazards.
Highlights from the 2023 Child Online Safety Index Report
The 2023 COSI report, boasting a sample of 351,376 children, provides valuable insights with a new four-point rating scale. Utilizing this tool, policy and industry leaders can better identify strengths and weaknesses in existing child online safety efforts. The United Kingdom, Germany, and China emerged as top performers, whereas Saudi Arabia notably improved its stance in Children's Safe Technology Use, ICT Company Responsibility, and Technology Infrastructure.
The DQ Institute and Global Cybersecurity Forum Partnership
The DQ Institute finds a strategic partner in the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF), committed to discussing and resolving pressing issues in Cyberspace. Partnered since 2022, the GCF and the DQ Institute collectively highlight child online safety. By using COSI's robust framework and shared vision, both organizations aim to improve resource allocation and better implement related initiatives.
As conveyed by the COSI report findings, there's still much work to do to ensure children's online safety. Stakeholders across the spectrum need to play active roles - from maintaining children's safe use of technology to instilling digital citizenship education. To combat the persistent cyber-pandemic, international collaboration, policy enhancements, and continuous education are crucial. The partnership between the DQ Institute and GCF serves as a beacon of hope in orchestrating the much-needed action against this pressing issue.
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