Online Safety

Online Safety Challenges in Sri Lanka: Problems and Solutions

Introduction

With the rapid rise of internet usage in Sri Lanka, online platforms have become essential for communication, education, business, and entertainment. However, as digital spaces expand, so do the risks associated with them. From cyberbullying to data breaches, online safety concerns affect both individuals and organizations. Protecting digital rights and ensuring a secure online environment is vital for Sri Lanka’s progress.

(Visual Suggestion: An illustration of a user surrounded by icons of cybersecurity threats like phishing, hacking, and cyberbullying.)

Key Online Safety Issues in Sri Lanka

1. Cyberbullying and Harassment

  • Cyberbullying is a growing concern, especially among young people and women. Harassment on social media platforms often leads to emotional distress and mental health issues.

2. Online Scams and Phishing

  • Scammers use fake emails, messages, and websites to steal sensitive information like bank details and passwords.

3. Data Breaches and Privacy Violations

  • Unauthorized access to personal data, often through hacking or poorly secured websites, poses significant privacy risks.

4. Child Exploitation

  • Children face dangers such as grooming, exploitation, and exposure to inappropriate content.

5. Fake News and Misinformation

  • The spread of false information online can lead to social unrest and damage reputations.

6. Digital Addiction

  • Overuse of social media and gaming platforms, especially among youth, affects productivity, relationships, and mental health.

(Visual Suggestion: Infographic highlighting the percentages of people affected by each issue in Sri Lanka.)

Actions to Address Online Safety Problems

1. Awareness and Education

  • Conduct awareness programs in schools, workplaces, and communities about online risks and safe internet practices.
  • Promote digital literacy so users can identify phishing scams, fake news, and harmful content.

(Visual Suggestion: A community workshop on digital safety with participants learning from an expert.)

2. Stronger Laws and Enforcement

  • Sri Lanka has introduced laws such as the Computer Crimes Act No. 24 of 2007 and the Personal Data Protection Act No. 9 of 2022, but enforcement needs to be strengthened.
  • Collaborate with law enforcement agencies to crack down on cybercriminals.

(Visual Suggestion: A gavel with a shield symbolizing strong cyber laws.)

3. Reporting Mechanisms

  • Victims of online harassment or fraud can report cases to the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) via their hotline or email.
  • Social media platforms have reporting tools to address cyberbullying and abuse.

(Visual Suggestion: A screenshot of the CERT website and hotline information.)

4. Parental Controls for Children

  • Use parental control tools to restrict access to inappropriate content and monitor online activity.
  • Educate children on the importance of not sharing personal information with strangers online.

(Visual Suggestion: A parent setting up child-friendly filters on a laptop or smartphone.)

5. Support Systems for Victims

  • Establish counseling centers to support victims of cyberbullying, harassment, or exploitation.
  • NGOs such as Women in Need (WIN) and Child Protection Services can provide psychological and legal assistance.

(Visual Suggestion: Helplines and support group logos with contact details.)

How to Take Action for Online Safety Violations

If you encounter an online safety issue such as cyberbullying, scams, or harassment, take the following steps:

Step 1: Document the Violation

  • Take screenshots or record evidence of the violation, such as threatening messages, phishing emails, or inappropriate content.
  • Save relevant URLs or social media profiles linked to the violation.

Step 2: Report to Relevant Authorities

  • Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT):
    • Website: www.cert.gov.lk
    • Hotline: +94 112 691 692
    • Email: cert@cert.gov.lk
      CERT addresses cybersecurity incidents such as hacking, phishing, and data breaches.
  • Cyber Crimes Division of Sri Lanka Police:
    Report major crimes like identity theft or online harassment by visiting the nearest police station or contacting the Cyber Crimes Division.

(Visual Suggestion: A flowchart showing reporting steps for online violations.)

Step 3: Use Social Media Reporting Tools

  • Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have built-in tools to report abuse, fake accounts, and harmful content. Access these tools through the platform’s “Help” or “Report” section.

Step 4: Seek Legal Help

  • Consult with a lawyer if the violation is severe and legal action is required. They can guide you on filing a case under Sri Lanka’s Computer Crimes Act or other relevant laws.

Step 5: Inform Your Bank or Service Provider (For Scams)

  • If your financial or personal data has been compromised, inform your bank immediately to block cards or freeze accounts.
  • Contact your mobile or internet service provider to secure your account.

Step 6: Protect Yourself

  • Change your passwords for compromised accounts immediately.
  • Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
  • Install antivirus software to detect malware or phishing attempts.

Step 7: Counseling and Support

  • Victims of cyberbullying or exploitation can contact support groups like:
    • Women in Need (WIN): +94 112 671 291
    • Child Protection Authority Hotline: 1929

(Visual Suggestion: A list of hotline numbers and email addresses for reporting online safety issues.)

Challenges in Ensuring Online Safety

  1. Low Awareness
    • Many users lack knowledge about online safety practices and the risks involved.
  2. Limited Resources
    • Law enforcement agencies often face resource constraints when dealing with cybercrimes.
  3. Rapid Technological Advancements
    • New technologies like AI and the Metaverse introduce unprecedented risks, making regulation and monitoring more complex.
  4. Cultural Stigma
    • Victims of online harassment, particularly women, may hesitate to report incidents due to social stigma.

(Visual Suggestion: A graph comparing the growth of internet users with the increase in reported cybercrimes over the years.)

Steps for Individuals to Stay Safe Online

  1. Protect Personal Information
    • Avoid sharing sensitive details like bank accounts or phone numbers on untrusted platforms.
  2. Verify Sources
    • Always check the authenticity of websites, emails, and social media profiles before interacting with them.
  3. Enable Privacy Settings
    • Use privacy settings on social media to control who can see your posts and personal information.
  4. Stay Updated
    • Keep your devices and software updated to avoid vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit.
  5. Be Mindful of Your Digital Footprint
    • Think twice before posting anything online, as it could have long-term consequences.

(Visual Suggestion: A checklist of safe online practices.)

Conclusion

As Sri Lanka embraces the digital age, ensuring online safety is a shared responsibility. By educating ourselves, reporting violations, and advocating for stronger laws, we can create a secure and trustworthy digital environment for all. The road to online safety is challenging but achievable through collective effort.

(Visual Suggestion: An image of a family using digital devices safely, symbolizing a secure online future.)