Safer Internet Day warns of AI dangers for children

Ireland, along with the rest of the world, is observing Safer Internet Day with a concentrated focus on the emerging risks artificial intelligence poses to young people. This year’s theme, ‘AI Aware: Safe, Smart and in Control,’ seeks to galvanize parents, educators, and young people themselves to consider the pervasive influence of AI in their lives.

Understanding the Risks

Research conducted by University College Dublin (UCD) reveals a complex relationship between young people and AI. While exhibiting a degree of distrust, they are simultaneously accepting of the privacy compromises often required for its use and increasingly reliant on AI technologies, despite acknowledging their potential for misuse.

Did You Know? More than 90% of eight to 12-year-olds – approximately 3,000 children studied – are currently active online.

Parental Oversight and Online Safety

Concerns are mounting regarding the level of parental supervision of children’s online activities. CyberSafeKids’ latest research indicates that many children have unrestricted contact with strangers online. This is compounded by concerns about underage access to social media and the sharing of images. A significant number of parents report feeling unprepared and lacking confidence in managing their children’s digital lives.

According to Alex Cooney, CEO of CyberSafeKids, “Our research shows many children are navigating complex online spaces largely alone, with little meaningful parental oversight.” Ms. Cooney also highlighted the dangers of children sharing content online without understanding its potential reach or the possibility of alteration and misuse through tools like “nudification” applications and “AI girlfriend apps.”

The Role of Education and Policy

Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton emphasized the importance of equipping young people with the critical thinking and digital literacy skills necessary to evaluate AI-generated content, safeguard their privacy, and make responsible online choices. This sentiment was echoed by Online Safety Commissioner Niamh Hodnett, who described the focus on AI during Safer Internet Day as “both welcome and timely.”

Expert Insight: The UCD research suggests a critical gap between awareness of AI’s risks and actual behavior. Young people may intellectually understand the potential for harm, but still engage with AI technologies, indicating a need for more effective strategies to translate knowledge into protective action.

Impact on the Media Landscape

Beyond direct risks to young people, the impact of AI is also being scrutinized within the media sector. The Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence is holding a hearing to examine issues such as the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation, the creation of AI-enabled deepfakes, and challenges to copyright law related to AI-generated articles.

Committee Cathaoirleach Malcolm Byrne noted that social media companies currently operate under different legal frameworks than traditional publishers, raising concerns about accountability. He stated, “Misinformation…is undoubtedly adding significant pressure to the democratic role of the press and eroding public trust in traditional forms of media.”

The hearing will include testimony from representatives of the National Union of Journalists, Media Literacy Ireland, and NewsBrand Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main focus of Safer Internet Day 2026?

The main focus is on the risks and harms posed to young people by artificial intelligence.

What did research from UCD reveal about young people and AI?

The research showed that young people do not trust AI, but reluctantly accept privacy trade-offs and increasingly rely on it despite knowing its potential for malicious use.

What concerns were raised by CyberSafeKids regarding parental oversight?

CyberSafeKids’ research showed many children have no parental restrictions around online contact with strangers and that many parents feel ill-equipped to manage their children’s online activities.

As AI technology continues to evolve, how might the strategies for ensuring online safety for young people need to adapt to address emerging challenges?