Ghana: 64% of children exposed to online violence | APAnews

According to the Ghana Cyber ​​Security Authority, about 64% of school-going children in Ghana are at risk of sexual exploitation online.

Speaking at the 2024 National Cyber ​​Security Challenge for selected schools in the Middle Zone, Mrs. Herrietta Asamoah, Chief Child Online Advocate at the Ghana Cyber ​​Security Authority, said the initiative, which was launched in 2022, aims to raise awareness among children to stay safe online and empower them to act as advocates to spread the message across the country.

The authority also revealed that a 2022 survey found that more than 22,000 child sexual exploitation materials were generated and shared online in Ghana, underscoring the urgency of addressing the problem.

Ms Asamoah spoke on the theme “Empowering Young Minds, Creating Opportunities: Promoting a Safe Digital Ghananoted that the authority had expanded its reach from six schools in 2022 to 70 schools, and expressed optimism that upcoming research could show a reduction in the production, sharing and distribution of online child exploitation material in the country.

Mr. Simon Amoh, Senior Regional Sales Manager at MTN Northern Business District, stressed that the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a crucial area that requires careful consideration.

“It’s a double-edged sword: its unprecedented speed increases our defense capabilities, but it also allows malicious actors to exploit it to launch more sophisticated cyberattacks.” he explained.

He stressed the need for advanced technologies and urged: “Make sure you use the Internet in an ethical and responsible manner.“

According to the Ghanaian Times, Mr Amoh noted on Friday that cybersecurity is not just about protecting data but also about maintaining the trust and integrity of the digital community.

The report noted that five schools participated in the challenge, with Serwaa Kese SHS being declared the middle zone champion with a score of 37 points.

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The alarming statistics

The Ghana Cyber ​​Security Authority reports that approximately 64% of Ghanaian school-going children are at risk of sexual exploitation via the internetThis statistic underscores the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures to protect youth in this digital age.

National Cyber ​​Security Challenge 2024

During the National Cyber ​​Security Challenge 2024 event held for selected schools in the Middle Zone, Lead Advocate for Online Children’s Rights from the Ghana Cyber ​​Security Authority, Mrs Herrietta Asamoahaddressed important issues surrounding online safety for children. Her emphasis on empowering children to advocate for safe internet practices is crucial in an age where digital threats are ubiquitous.

Objectives of the National Cyber ​​​​Security Challenge

• To inform children about online safety.
• To cultivate a new generation of credible advocates for online child protection.
• To expand the reach from six schools in 2022 to 70 schools in 2024.

Understanding Online Exploitation

A 2022 study found that more than 22,000 materials on child sexual exploitation were generated and shared across the internet in Ghana. This staggering number highlights the urgent need to address online safety.

The role of AI and technology in cybersecurity

Mr. Simon AmohSenior Regional Sales Manager at MTN Northern Business District, spoke about the dual use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). While AI can enhance defensive capabilities, it can also be exploited by malicious actors to launch sophisticated cyberattacks. This reality highlights the importance of incorporating ethical practices into technology use.

Key points from Mr Amoh’s speech included:

• AI as a tool for improving cybersecurity.
• The importance of ethical and responsible internet use.
• Cybersecurity is more than just data protection; it is also about trust and integrity in the digital space.

Success stories and case studies

The National Cyber ​​​​Security Challenge delivered remarkable results, with Serwaa Kese SHS emerging as the Middle Zone champion with an impressive score of 37 points. This success illustrates the growing involvement of schools in advocating safe internet practices and their dedication to fostering a safe online environment.

Additional initiatives and joint efforts

The Ghana Cyber ​​​​Security Authority initiative has seen collaboration with schools to promote awareness regarding potential online threats. Here are some initiatives that complement the challenge:

• Workshops and trainings: Facilitating practical sessions that educate children about online safety and the basics of cybersecurity.
• Parent Involvement Programs: Encourage parents to take an active role in protecting their children online.
• Partnerships with technology companies: Working with technology companies to create safer online platforms for children.

Practical tips for parents and caregivers

It is vital for parents and caregivers to be proactive about online safety. Here are practical tips to ensure your kids stay safe as they navigate the digital landscape:

• Teach your children: Discuss the importance of sharing personal information and the risks associated with social media.
• Use parental controls: Implement Internet filters and parental controls to limit access to inappropriate content.
• Encourage open communicationMake sure your children feel comfortable reporting suspicious or uncomfortable online encounters.
• Monitor online activityRegularly monitor your child’s Internet usage and online interactions.
• Lead by example: Be an example of safe and responsible internet behavior yourself.

Commitment to digital security

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that schools and communities engage in ongoing discussions about online safety. Events like the National Cyber ​​Security Challenge are crucial in developing young advocates who can help identify and combat online threats.

A future of competent lawyers

Through initiatives led by the Ghana Cyber ​​​​Security Authority and the involvement of institutions such as MTN, the goal remains to safe digital GhanaThe growing participation of schools reflects the commitment to developing informed, skilled and responsible digital citizens.

Conclusion

As Ghana navigates the challenges of the digital age, it is crucial that we work collectively to reduce the risks children face online. Through education, advocacy and collaboration between parents, schools and cybersecurity authorities, the goal of reducing online exploitation can be achieved. Protecting the next generation must be a shared responsibility that includes all stakeholders, ensuring a safer online experience for all.