Colombo, August 2, 2024 – A seminar on digital addiction and preventing online child sexual abuse took place today, emphasizing the need for balanced digital consumption and heightened online safety for children. Hosted by the International Foundation for Digital Child (IFDC), the seminar featured key insights from educational leaders and experts on navigating the digital landscape responsibly.
Prasad Samathunga, Principal of St. Joseph’s Boys’ College, Colombo 14, inaugurated the event, highlighting the dual nature of digital engagement for today’s youth. “While the digital world offers tremendous opportunities for education and empowerment, it also presents significant risks. Without proper digital balance, children may face negative experiences, including online sexual abuse,” Samathunga noted.
The seminar, led by Dr. M.C. Rasmin, Director of IFDC, was divided into two main segments: digital balance and online safety. The first segment focused on educating participants about the benefits and drawbacks of internet use. Topics included the signs of digital addiction, maintaining a healthy balance with technology, and understanding the social, physical, and psychological consequences of excessive screen time. Practical guidelines for parents on managing children’s exposure to inappropriate content and creating effective digital regulations were also discussed.
The second segment addressed the urgent issue of online child sexual exploitation. The lead trainer provided an in-depth analysis of online child sexual abuse, detailing various forms of digital exploitation. Cyberbullying, involving the use of electronic communication to harass or harm others, often results in emotional and psychological damage. Cyber grooming, where online predators build trust with children to exploit them, requires proactive protective measures. Sexting, or the exchange of sexually explicit messages or images through digital platforms, is another serious concern. Additionally, the production, distribution, or possession of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM), is illegal and harmful. Sextortion, or online blackmail where individuals coerce victims into sending sexual images or money under threat of exposure, was also discussed. The seminar covered inappropriate content, which includes material unsuitable for children due to its explicit or harmful nature, and the impact of disinformation and deepfakes, which can distort children’s understanding and critical thinking.
The trainer outlined strategies for recognizing and combating online grooming tactics, such as the use of false identities, emotional manipulation, material incentives, and coercive sexual exchanges.
Students attending the seminar gained crucial knowledge on how to address and prevent cyberbullying, sexting, and sextortion. They were also equipped with skills to identify and handle inappropriate content and safeguard against online exploitation.
This seminar represents a significant step forward in fostering digital literacy and safety among children and adolescents, reinforcing the importance of vigilance and education in the digital age
