Be Internet Legends: Empowering UK Kids for Online Safety

Be Internet Legends, a comprehensive online safety education program, has significantly impacted children aged 7 to 11 across the UK since its inception in 2018. Developed through a partnership between Google and Parent Zone, with support from the Department for Education, the free initiative aims to empower young people to become confident, responsible, and safe digital citizens. The program has achieved remarkable reach, training over 10 million pupils and engaging 90% of primary schools nationwide.

The program's core philosophy is built around five key pillars, each addressing critical aspects of online interaction. “Be Internet Sharp” encourages children to think critically before sharing personal information online, emphasizing privacy and the lasting impact of their digital footprint. “Be Internet Alert” teaches them to identify and question potentially misleading or harmful content, fostering critical thinking skills to combat misinformation and scams. Security is paramount with “Be Internet Strong,” which educates children on safeguarding their accounts through robust password practices. Furthermore, “Be Internet Kind” promotes empathy and respectful communication to counter cyberbullying and foster positive online communities. Finally, “Be Internet Brave” empowers children to seek help from trusted adults when encountering uncomfortable or unsafe situations online, reinforcing the importance of speaking up.

Be Internet Legends delivers its vital lessons through diverse and engaging resources. These include curriculum-aligned materials for teachers, interactive school assemblies, and the popular adventure game “Interland,” where children navigate challenges that reinforce online safety principles. The program also extends its support to parents through Parent Zone's Parent Info website, offering guidance and activities to foster safer family digital habits. During the pandemic, the program swiftly adapted, introducing remote learning resources to ensure continuous access to essential online safety education. By continuously updating its content to reflect evolving online trends and threats, Be Internet Legends remains a cornerstone in preparing the next generation to thrive safely in the digital world.

(Source: https://blog.google/around-the-globe/google-europe/united-kingdom/be-internet-legends-has-trained-more-than-10-million-pupils-across-the-uk/)