The increase in cyber bullying and other crimes has prompted Flow to launch the ‘Connected and Protected’ programme geared towards educating youths and the elderly about safer internet practices.

At the launch of the event today (January 31), Stephen Price, vice president and general manager for Flow Jamaica, shared that due to the onset of the pandemic, the nation’s children and elderly in particular have become increasingly vulnerable to cyber bullies and predators in the online space.

He noted that Connected and Protected is a “comprehensive online safety awareness programme that amplifies the messages from our ‘Safer Internet Week’ initiative and extends its reach, scope and impact”.

This year will be the 20th celebration of ‘Safer Internet Day’, which is observed on February 7. To mark the occasion, Flow has partnered with several government organisations to build public awareness through its year-long campaign.

“Every year, various stakeholders including Government, schools, internet service providers, foundations and other non-government organisations mark the day with various activities focused on promoting safer internet practices and championing the case of working together for a better internet,” stated Price.

In his remarks, Daryl Vaz, minister of science, energy and technology, noted that, as the country increases its digital footprint, there will be an increase in cyber attacks at greater levels of sophistication. As such, he has extended his full support to Flow for its continued work to ensure Jamaicans are protected.

“With the drive towards a connected society, we must continue with collaborative efforts to engender a culture of safe practices in a connected world,” added Vaz.

As such, under the Connected and Protected programme, Flow will have seven events geared towards internet safety for Jamaicans of all ages.

In partnership with UNICEF, Flow started the U-Report online safety poll that will collect information from students about ways the service provider can protect young people online. The company will also have a ‘Safer Internet Day Summit’ on February 7, where it will visit Jamaica College to educate youths on how they can practise internet safety and refrain from cyber bullying.

A J$1.5-million grant will be awarded to six schools who best demonstrate how they can promote safer online practices in their institutions. Additionally, there will be the return of the Online Safety Ambassador programme and the months of June to August will focus on online safety sessions for parents. September to November will focus on online safety for seniors and volunteers.

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