The Internet brings many benefits, improvements and tools for all of us. However, it brings new challenges not only for adults but also for children who have been part of the virtual world practically from their birth.
On the other side of the virtual world, the traps of modern cybercrime are lurking. Just like in the real world, also in the virtual world it is necessary to detect, describe and actively eliminate these traps.
SK-NIC is constantly trying to support the security of the virtual Slovakia.
Therefore we have actively supported the creation of the „IT Happened“ portal (Slovak only) made by IPčko – Internet counseling for young people, which is directly linked to the „Caught in the Net“ film which is actually in Slovak cinemas.
The movie highlights the long-term taboo topic of child abuse online, giving an overview of various practices of aggressors lurking on social networks. The concept of grooming is presented to the audience – encouraging the child’s trust in the virtual space for sexual contact. It is a very interesting and quite frightening depiction of reality, and what the apparent anonymity of the Internet causes in humans.
In Slovakia this topic has had practically no solution or at least a relevant support, but it has changed now – through the „IT Happened“ portal, the victims will be able to ask for help immediately. This online counseling service is anonymous, so even victims who don’t want to talk about their problem with their loved ones, parents, friends, or the police can ask for help. Psychology specialists are ready to give a helping hand every day via online chat, email or phone. The „IT Happened“ portal is also directly referenced in the „Caught in the Net“ film.
We consider topic of the „Caught in the Net“ movie to be extremely current. That is why we have also supported „Who Is Next? “ film in the past. It is sad, that educational institutions in Slovakia do practically nothing at all in this matter. But just pointing out the pitfalls of the Internet is not enough. It is also necessary to spread information about how to prevent such serious problems, or how to deal with them in case they occur.
Children, parents, and also experts can find such instructions at stalosato.sk (Slovak only), as well as information about topics such as grooming or violence and blackmailing of children and young people on the Internet. The slogan of the portal is „No one needs to be alone. Help exists!“
The „Caught In the Net“ movie is associated with strong raising of public awareness, in which SK-NIC has been involved. In cooperation with IPčko and their helpline we want to contribute to highlighting this societal problem.
Therefore, we are sending you this – do not stay cold – appeal if you know the victims of Internet predators, you can find leaflets for them here (Slovak only). If you have encountered harassment or cyberbullying over the Internet personally, and you do not know where to go, please, contact the IPčko’s helplink directly. If they are too busy, try again!
