Safer Internet Day 2026 is being observed across India on Monday, February 10, with a renewed focus on digital safety as online activity continues to expand across sectors. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is leading nationwide awareness campaigns, driving a sharp rise in public interest around topics such as cyber hygiene, UPI fraud prevention, and artificial intelligence safety.
The annual observance comes at a time when digital payments, online services, and AI-powered tools are becoming deeply embedded in everyday life, increasing the importance of safe and responsible internet use.
Authorities noted that the scale and speed of digital adoption have expanded the potential impact of online threats, making awareness and prevention more critical than ever. As users rely on the internet for financial transactions, communication, and access to services, safe usage practices are increasingly viewed as an essential part of digital literacy.
MeitY Leads Nationwide Cyber Awareness Campaigns
As part of Safer Internet Day, MeitY has rolled out coordinated outreach initiatives through government platforms, educational institutions, and social media channels. Officials said the campaigns are aimed at promoting basic cyber hygiene practices, including strong password management, protection of personal data, and caution while interacting with unknown links or messages.
The ministry is also working with industry bodies and state agencies to extend awareness programmes to students, senior citizens, and first-time internet users. These efforts are designed to address common digital risks while encouraging informed and responsible online behaviour.
Officials added that the outreach includes multilingual resources and region-specific messaging to ensure wider reach across diverse user groups. Workshops, online sessions, and informational material are being used to simplify cyber safety concepts, helping users better understand everyday risks and the steps needed to stay secure while using digital services.
Focus on UPI Fraud Prevention
One of the most searched topics linked to this year’s observance is UPI fraud prevention, reflecting growing concern over digital payment security. Authorities have reiterated that users should never share one-time passwords, PINs, or verification codes, and should verify payment requests before approving transactions.
MeitY-backed advisories have highlighted common fraud methods, including fake customer care calls, phishing messages, and deceptive links shared via messaging platforms. Officials stressed that awareness remains the first line of defence, alongside prompt reporting of suspicious activity through official banking and cybercrime channels.
AI Safety Enters the Public Conversation
Artificial intelligence safety has emerged as a key theme of Safer Internet Day 2026, as AI-driven tools become more widely used in education, workplaces, and consumer applications. Government representatives have emphasised the need for responsible use of AI, transparency in automated systems, and safeguards against misuse.
While India continues to promote innovation in emerging technologies, officials noted that user awareness is essential to prevent risks such as misinformation, data misuse, and over-reliance on automated outputs. Educational material released as part of the campaign focuses on understanding AI limitations and ethical use.
Why Safer Internet Day Matters
Safer Internet Day is observed globally to encourage safer and more responsible digital engagement, particularly for children and young users. In India, the initiative has gained wider relevance as internet access and digital services expand rapidly across urban and rural areas.
Cyber experts note that sustained awareness, rather than one-day campaigns, is critical to reducing online risks. By linking Safer Internet Day with ongoing public education efforts, authorities aim to strengthen long-term digital resilience.
As online searches surge around cyber hygiene, digital payments, and AI safety, Safer Internet Day 2026 highlights the shared responsibility of governments, platforms, and users in building a safer digital ecosystem.
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Last Updated on: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 4:37 pm by Digital Herald Team | Published by: Digital Herald Team on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 4:37 pm | News Categories: Technology