Muireann Sadler
Director, Cybersmarties Ireland
Children can be targeted by online predators in as little as 18 minutes, highlighting the urgency for better online safety measures amid rising online risks.
In Ireland, 93% of 8 to 12-year-olds and 22% of those under six own personal devices. Alarmingly, 84% of these young users have illegal social media on platforms like TikTok and Snapchat, despite age restrictions.
Alarming online risks
In 2022, the US National Center for Missing and Exploited Children analysed over 32 million potential online child exploitation instances, representing an 87% increase since 2019.
Cybersmarties is an app designed to combat these dangers. Endorsed by An Garda Síochána, UNICEF and many other organisations, it ensures children’s safety online. Founded in Ireland, it has over 1 million children subscribed in the US, UK, New Zealand, Australia, India and Turkey. It offers a predator-proof environment, reduces bullying and teaches children how to engage in positive social interactions. Features include monitored chat and safe multi-player gaming, enabling children to navigate digital spaces safely.
Behaviour changes
Cybersmarties has led to notable improvements in children’s behaviour, online and offline. Schools report enhanced peer relationships, increased empathy and greater resilience. It also identifies areas where students need support, such as conflict resolution skills.
Subscribed primary schools in Ireland report awareness of covert bullying and intimidation. The app uses behavioural technology to educate children on positive communication, reducing cyberbullying by 99% in every school within three days.
Detailed wellbeing reports
Cybersmarties requires a daily wellbeing check-in from pupils, creating comprehensive wellbeing reports for schools, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in social behaviour and overall wellbeing, while also providing tailored training to schools.
From February to May 2024, this groundbreaking app blocked attempted racist and sexual content among Irish pupils aged 8 to 12. The app’s monitored approach protects children while empowering them with skills to thrive digitally, introducing the concept of personal responsibility.
Download the white paper ‘Navigating the digital age 2024: a guide to the real dangers of the internet and social media for children and teenagers.’
The white paper can be sourced at: www.cybersmarties.com
And other sources are from: www.cybersafekids.ie/resources
