Helping the next generation stay cyber secure

Marking the 20th annual Safer Internet Day this month, Optus has announced an expansion to its Digital Thumbprint Program to provide more opportunities for students in Moorabool Shire to learn about digital safety and wellbeing.

Moorabool Shire primary school students in years 3 and 4 can now be among the first to experience the expanded digital educational program, focusing on kids staying safe when on games and apps, and keeping information private online. Year 5 and 6 students will be able to access a program tailored to deal with cyberbullying and have respectful online relationships.

In light of Safer Internet Day, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner is encouraging all Australians to connect safely and with purpose, reflect before they act, and protect themselves and others by taking action online.

Optus Customer Success Managing Director, Maurice McCarthy said Optus was investing more heavily in cyber security after last year’s cyberattack.

“We’re investing $1.25 million into the Optus Digital Thumbprint Program this year as one of our key commitments following the recent cyberattack. The aim is to create a more inclusive and optimistic future for all Australians in Moorabool Shire to thrive and have confident, positive interactions with each other and digital technology by providing essential tools for digital safety and wellbeing,” he said.

“We’re dedicated to ensuring our Digital Thumbprint Program has an increased focus on Cyber Security and Digital Identity topics. This is part of a series of commitments Optus is making following the cyberattack to be better as a company, for our customers and for the communities we call home.”

eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, said Safer Internet Day is a chance for all Australians in Regional South Victoria to help create safer online spaces.

“It’s encouraging to see businesses supporting this year’s Safer Internet Day theme: Connect. Reflect. Protect,” she said.

“We can all contribute to a safer, more respectful online world by supporting each other online, standing up to bullies, and reporting abuse to the platform and then to eSafety.gov.au. Trusted eSafety Providers also play an important role by providing high quality programs that empower young people, families and seniors to have safer, more positive online experiences wherever they live.”