Safer Internet Day is celebrated globally on the second Tuesday of February to raise awareness and promote safe and responsible use of the internet, especially for children and young people. It began in 2004 in Europe and is now celebrated in over 160 countries worldwide. Objectives Sensitize users about safe and responsible use of internet and AI Promote best practices for cyber hygiene Educate users about major cyber threats and mitigation techniques Theme for 2026 The 10 February 2026 is celebrated as Safer Internet Day. The theme is “Smart tech, Safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI." Essential Safety and Cyber Hygiene Practices to Avoid AI Frauds Adopting safe digital habits significantly reduces the risk of AI-enabled deception. Since AI frauds exploit behaviour, awareness and disciplined digital practices are critical. Common Cyber Threats of AI Phishing - Deceptive communication (like emails) to trick people into revealing sensitive information. OTP / UPI Fraud: Scams involving one-time passwords or unified payment interface transactions. Malware / Spyware: Malicious software designed to access a computer system or monitor user activity without authorization. Remote Access Scam: Scammers tricking users into granting remote access to their devices. Deepfake / Al Voice Scam Digital Arrest : Fraudsters pose as police/CBI/customs/RBI officers and threaten arrest and demand money immediately Recommended Safe Practices for Users Pause Before Acting Take a moment to assess any unexpected, urgent, or emotionally charged digital request. Always Verify Through a Second Channel Confirm calls, messages, or video requests using official websites, verified numbers, or known contacts. Question Familiar Voices and Faces Do not assume authenticity based on voice, video, uniforms, or official-looking backgrounds alone. Control Emotional Responses Stay alert when messages create fear, urgency, sympathy, or pressure—these are common manipulation tactics. Limit Your Public Digital Footprint Reduce sharing of photos, videos, voice notes, family details, workplace information, and location updates. Regularly Review Privacy Settings Restrict who can view your profile details, posts, and contact information across platforms. Stay Informed About AI Capabilities Be aware that voices, videos, images, and messages can be cloned or generated within seconds using AI. Use Strong, Unique Passwords Create long, complex passwords and avoid reusing them across accounts. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Add an extra layer of security to email, banking, social media, and cloud accounts. Avoid Clicking Unsolicited Links Be cautious of links related to KYC, refunds, deliveries, offers, verification, or emergencies. Do Not Share OTPs or Credentials No legitimate organisation will ask for passwords, PINs, or OTPs over calls or messages. Keep Devices and Applications Updated Install updates promptly to fix vulnerabilities exploited by fraudsters. Avoid Installing Unknown or Unverified Apps Especially apps shared via links, messages, or urgent instructions. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately Early reporting helps prevent financial loss and protects others from similar attacks. Remember AI frauds exploit habits—not intelligence. Always - Pause. Verify. Share less. Secure more. Practising strong cyber hygiene and questioning unexpected digital interactions can disrupt AI-enabled fraud at any stage. Source : Stay Safe Online