November 7th 2019
The Welsh language version of the Get Safe Online website was officially launched earlier today.
The announcement was made at a visit to Cardiff and The Vale College’s City Centre Campus by Rebecca Evans AM, Minister for Finance and Trefnydd, and Tony Neate, Chief Executive of Get Safe Online. The event was arranged to speak to students about the importance of online safety.
Wales is globally acknowledged across the industry and academia as one of the 28 global centres of excellence in cyber security. Yet the latest figures from research commissioned for this year’s Get Safe Online Week show that there is still a lot more work to be done:
- More than half (55%) of people in Wales fail to use internet security software
- 66% neglect to carry out software, operating system and app updates when prompted
- More than half (54%) click on links and attachments from unknown sources
The Get Safe Online Week research revealed that 16-24 year olds (Gen Z) consider themselves to be the most digitally responsible generation. However, they still have a lot to learn. For example, 64% of Gen Zs surveyed did not think it risky to share sexually explicit photos online.
Speaking before the launch, Rebecca Evans said: “Cybercrime is growing, and we need to do all we can to ensure businesses and people, whatever their age, are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to recognise the signs of cybercrime; and provide them with the tools they need to stay safe online.
“We are working with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and stakeholders, including Get Safe Online, to share new knowledge and expertise as we strive to become world leaders in cyber security.
“I am looking forward to meeting young people who have grown up with technology at their fingertips, ensuring that we learn from their experiences.”
Tony Neate said: “Digital responsibility must always be a two-way conversation to keep improving behaviours and ensure a safer use of the internet. We need to make sure those people know how they could be putting themselves, their family, friends, finances and identity at risk. For example, if you spot someone close to you oversharing, don’t just mute them. Give them some tips on how they can share more responsibly.”
The Welsh language site at wales.getsafeonline.org also features a comprehensive section for small to medium sized businesses, reinforcing the Welsh Government’s commitment to make Wales a safe place to do business.
Get Safe Online submitted a successful bid for the Welsh language website earlier in the year, with funds coming from the National Cyber Security Programme.
Other notable activities funded by the Programme have included basic Cyber Essentials accreditation for a number of third sector organisations, the enhanced Cyber Essentials Plus for some public sector organisations, and the Wales Cyber Safety Bus Tour, which took part in the Spring.
2020 will see Wales hosting CyberFirst courses and Bursary at Cardiff Metropolitan University, the CyberFirst Girls’ Competition National Final, and the NCSC’s flagship annual conference at the International Convention Centre in Newport.
