Globally, every half second, a child goes online for the first time. With more than 200,000 children connecting with the internet daily, contributing to a global total of approximately 800 million children actively participating in social media platforms.

In recent years, India has seen a great advancement in digital technology usage and last-mile connectivity. Although this has brought about positive opportunities for children with access to information, learning resources, and expanded opportunities for social engagement, it comes with risks. As children are spending more time online, they are vulnerable to unknown threats that may compromise their safety and well-being.

Cybercrimes committed against children witnessed a sharp rise of more than 400 percent in 2020 from those committed in 2019 reported National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), 2021. However, this is only the tip of the iceberg; many cases go unreported. Online violence targeting children can take place in many forms and can be perpetrated by both adults and children. It can have a significant impact on its victims in the physical world just as in the online space.

ChildFund has launched the WebSafeAndWise initiative to address the risks emerging in the digital environment while enabling children and young people to become effective digital citizens.