Ghana: 64% of children exposed to violence via the Internet | APAnews

The Ghana Cyber Security Authority reports that approximately 64% of school-aged children in Ghana are at risk of sexual exploitation through the internet.

During the National Cyber Security Challenge 2024 for selected schools in the Middle Zone, Mrs. Herrietta Asamoah, the Chief Child Online Advocate at the Ghana Cyber Security Authority, stated that the initiative, launched in 2022, aims to raise awareness among children to help them stay safe online and empower them as advocates to spread this message across the country.

The authority also revealed that a survey conducted in 2022 showed over 22,000 materials related to child sexual exploitation were generated and shared in Ghana via the internet, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.

Ms. Asamoah, speaking on the theme “Empowering Young Minds, Creating Opportunities: Promoting a Safe Digital Ghana,” noted that the authority had expanded its outreach from six schools in 2022 to 70 schools, expressing optimism that the upcoming survey might show a reduction in the production, sharing, and distribution of child exploitation materials online in the country.

Mr. Simon Amoh, Senior Regional Sales Manager at the MTN Northern Business District, emphasized that the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a crucial area that needs careful consideration.

“It is a double-edged sword; its unprecedented speed enhances our defensive capabilities but can also be exploited by malicious actors to create more sophisticated cyberattacks.” he stated.

Highlighting the need for cutting-edge technologies, he urged, “Ensure that you use the internet ethically and responsibly.”

According to the Ghanaian Times on Friday, Mr. Amoh remarked that cybersecurity involves not only protecting data but also maintaining the trust and integrity of the digital community.

The report mentioned that five schools participated in the challenge, with Serwaa Kese SHS being declared the middle zone champion with a score of 37 points.

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The Rising Threat of Online Sexual Exploitation Among Ghanaian School-Aged Children

The Alarming Statistics

The Ghana Cyber Security Authority reports that around 64% of Ghanaian school-aged children are at risk of sexual exploitation through the internet. This statistic underscores the pressing need for awareness and proactive measures to safeguard the youth in this digital age.

National Cyber Security Challenge 2024

During the National Cyber Security Challenge 2024 event held for selected schools in the Middle Zone, the Chief Child Online Advocate of the Ghana Cyber Security Authority, Mrs. Herrietta Asamoah, addressed key issues surrounding online child safety. Her emphasis on empowering children to advocate for safe internet practices is crucial in a time when digital threats are rampant.

Objectives of the National Cyber Security Challenge

• To educate children on online safety.
• To cultivate a new generation of credible advocates for online child protection.
• To expand outreach from six schools in 2022 to 70 schools in 2024.

Understanding Online Exploitation

In a survey conducted in 2022, it was revealed that over 22,000 child sexual exploitation materials were generated and shared through the internet in Ghana. This staggering number highlights an urgent need to address online safety.

The Role of AI and Technology in Cybersecurity

Mr. Simon Amoh, Senior Regional Sales Manager at MTN Northern Business District, spoke about the dual-use nature of Artificial Intelligence (AI). While AI can enhance defensive capabilities, it can also be exploited by malicious actors to conduct sophisticated cyberattacks. This reality stresses the importance of incorporating ethical practices into technological usage.

Key points from Mr. Amoh’s address included:

• AI as a tool for improving cybersecurity efforts.
• The significance of using the internet ethically and responsibly.
• Cybersecurity extends beyond data protection; it encompasses trust and integrity in digital spaces.

Success Stories and Case Studies

The National Cyber Security Challenge produced remarkable results, with Serwaa Kese SHS emerging as the champion of the Middle Zone with an impressive score of 37 points. This success illustrates the growing engagement of schools in advocating for safe internet practices and their commitment to fostering a secure online environment.

Additional Initiatives and Collaborative Efforts

The Ghana Cyber Security Authority’s initiative has seen collaboration with schools to promote awareness regarding potential online threats. Here are some initiatives that complement the challenge:

• Workshops and Training: Facilitating hands-on sessions that educate children about online safety and cybersecurity fundamentals.
• Parental Involvement Programs: Encouraging parents to actively participate in protecting their children online.
• Partnerships with Tech Companies: Collaborating with technology firms to create safer online platforms for children.

Practical Tips for Parents and Guardians

For parents and guardians, being proactive about online safety is vital. Here are practical tips to ensure your children remain safe while navigating the digital landscape:

• Educate Your Children: Discuss the importance of sharing personal information and the risks associated with social media.
• Utilize Parental Controls: Implement internet filters and parental controls to restrict access to inappropriate content.
• Encourage Open Communication: Make sure your children feel comfortable reporting any suspicious or uncomfortable online encounters.
• Monitor Online Activity: Regularly check your child’s internet usage and online interactions.
• Lead by Example: Model safe and responsible internet behavior yourself.

Engagement in Digital Safety

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for schools and communities to engage in ongoing discussions surrounding online safety. Events like the National Cyber Security Challenge are pivotal in shaping young advocates who can help identify and counteract online threats.

A Future of Empowered Advocates

Through initiatives led by the Ghana Cyber Security Authority and the involvement of institutions like MTN, the objective remains to create a safe digital Ghana. The growing participation of schools reflects a commitment to developing informed, skilled, and responsible digital citizens.

Conclusion

As Ghana navigates the challenges of the digital age, it is crucial that we work collectively to mitigate the risks children face online. Through education, advocacy, and cooperation among parents, schools, and cybersecurity authorities, the goal of reducing online exploitation can be achieved. Protecting the next generation must be a shared responsibility that involves all stakeholders, ensuring a safer online experience for everyone.