Kaspersky Expands Kids Cyber Resilience Project to Vietnam and Beyond
In an era where digital interactions are a fundamental part of daily life, Kaspersky is taking significant strides to ensure that children and teenagers are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the online world safely. The company has announced the expansion of its Kaspersky Kids Cyber Resilience Project to Vietnam, marking a pivotal step in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, while also launching the initiative in the Middle East and CIS countries. This proactive approach aims to foster a safer digital experience for the younger generation amidst the growing complexities of the cyber landscape.
Understanding the Kaspersky Kids Cyber Resilience Project
Launched in March 2023 in Singapore, the Kaspersky Kids Cyber Resilience Project is designed to raise awareness about online threats among children, parents, educators, and NGOs. The initiative emphasizes the importance of digital hygiene and practical strategies to enhance online security while promoting the responsible use of technology. Through interactive workshops, online courses, and engaging activities, the program encourages children to develop resilience against digital threats, empowering them to navigate the internet safely.
Since its inception, the project has successfully reached several countries in the APAC region, including the Philippines, Malaysia, and India. Now, with its expansion into Vietnam, Kaspersky aims to address the unique challenges posed by the rapid digital growth in the country, where concerns over cybersecurity risks among younger audiences are increasingly prevalent.
Empowering Educators in Vietnam
To facilitate this expansion, Kaspersky is collaborating with the Vietnet Information Technology and Communication Center (VIETNET-ICT) and the Thai Nguyen Department of Education and Training in Vietnam. A specialized Cyber Resilience Training program for teachers is scheduled for October 26, 2024. This initiative is crucial as it seeks to empower educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to create a secure digital environment for their students. By equipping teachers with cybersecurity skills, Kaspersky aims to foster a culture of safety and awareness that extends beyond the classroom.
Expanding Horizons: The Middle East and CIS Countries
In addition to its efforts in Vietnam, Kaspersky is also introducing the Cyber Resilience Project to the Middle East, a region increasingly focused on digital transformation and cyber safety. A workshop for parents will be held in Cairo, Egypt, in collaboration with the Information Technology Institute, Knowledge City Branch. This workshop will cover essential topics such as online safety, data protection, and privacy risks on social media, aiming to cultivate a culture of digital security among families.
Moreover, Kaspersky plans to launch the Cyber Resilience Project in Russia by the end of the year, furthering its commitment to enhancing the next generation’s cyber resilience through community engagement and educational initiatives.
Key Learning Outcomes of the Project
Participants in the Kaspersky Kids Cyber Resilience Project will gain valuable skills to recognize phishing scams, avoid malicious websites, and secure their social media accounts. The program also includes special modules dedicated to preventing cyberbullying and managing digital privacy. By focusing on these critical areas, Kaspersky aims to equip young users with the tools they need to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world.
Embracing AI in Education
In a forward-thinking move, Kaspersky is also introducing a new global training program titled “How to make AI in education work for the good.” This initiative, delivered in collaboration with the Kaspersky Academy, consists of several knowledge-based and practical sessions designed for K-12 teachers and parents. The program aims to help educators and parents navigate AI tools safely, ensuring that technology serves as a beneficial resource in teaching and learning.
Commitment to Cyber Safety
Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky, emphasizes the importance of equipping the younger generation with the skills to navigate the digital world securely. "As cyberthreats evolve, it’s critical to equip the younger generation with the skills to navigate the digital world securely," he stated. This commitment to fostering a safer online environment is reflected in the ongoing work of the Kaspersky Academy, which aims to raise awareness and provide educators and parents with the necessary tools to guide young people in safe digital practices.
A Collaborative Effort
Evgeniya Russkikh, Head of Cybersecurity Education at Kaspersky, highlights the complexity of creating a cybersafe environment for children and youth. "Fostering a cybersafe environment for children and the youth is a complex task, requiring the engagement of numerous parties, including teachers, parents, and NGO representatives," she noted. The Kaspersky Kids Cyber Resilience Project aims to unite these stakeholders, ultimately fostering a new generation of users who are knowledgeable and confident in maintaining their safety in the digital realm.
Conclusion
Kaspersky’s expansion of the Kids Cyber Resilience Project to Vietnam and its introduction in the Middle East and CIS countries represent a significant commitment to enhancing cybersecurity education for the younger generation. By empowering educators, parents, and children with essential skills and knowledge, Kaspersky is paving the way for a safer digital future. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that the next generation can navigate the online world with confidence and resilience.