Internet Safety Day focuses on the very young

The latest research suggests six out of ten young people who make contact with strangers on the internet lie about their age.

Some 43 percent are thought to have online friends they have never even met.

The research was carried out in the UK to mark the 8th global ‘‘Safer Internet Day’‘.

“We cannot lock the Internet up. So we have to help people use it responsibly. Then it can really change lives,” said EU Commissioner Neelie Kroes.

Children are using the Internet from a very early age. With this in mind, a new publication has been launched, full of educational activities for 4-8 year olds.

An EU-wide survey has also shown that a lack of discrimination about online relationships risks exposing youngsters to sexual content, data misuse and bullying.

The European Commission says it is planning a review of the relevant legislation.

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