The Internet is an integral part of daily life, transforming how we work, learn, communicate and do business. The growing dependence on digital technologies brings a heightened need for awareness and safety online. That’s what Safer Internet Day is for.
Safer Internet Day (SID) is celebrated globally and aims to promote safer and more responsible use of the internet, especially for children and teenagers. Thinking about the impact on international communications, as well as recognizing the key role played by a communications agency in Latin America, the date offers an opportunity to reflect on the region’s digital landscape and the challenges it faces.
Let’s dive into the importance of Safer Internet Day. We’ll take a look at its significance and how agencies can protect the company, its employees and clients in a region where misinformation and online fraud are a serious reality in the digital environment.
What is Safer Internet Day?
Safer Internet Day (SID) is an annual event that aims to raise awareness about the importance of safe online practices. Launched in 2004 by the European Commission, SID is now celebrated in more than 170 countries worldwide.
The day promotes responsible internet use, focusing on issues such as privacy, cybersecurity, online bullying, digital literacy and protecting children and vulnerable groups from harmful content.
It also serves as a platform for promoting dialogue and collaboration between governments, businesses, educators and civil society to create a safer online environment for everyone.
Each year, Safer Internet Day features a different relevant theme. In 2025, the focus has become more critical than ever, especially in regions like Latin America, where the rapid growth of internet usage has brought about both fruitful opportunities and arduous obstacles. The need to address misinformation and online fraud has become an urgent priority for both individuals and governments in the region.
For international agencies working in LATAM, participating in SID provides a chance to contribute to global efforts to address online risks while promoting digital responsibility in a region that is rapidly embracing digital technologies and, at the same time, also being exposed to invisible threats.
LATAM’s Growing Digital Landscape
Before talking about threats, let’s get a sense of the scope. Latin America is one of the fastest-growing regions in terms of internet penetration and digital adoption, this mostly due to the widespread use of smartphones, the cost of internet services and the region’s ever-growing middle class.
According to The Digital 2023 Global Overview Report by We Are Social and Hootsuite, over 80% of the population in Latin American countries are active internet users, with high rates of social media engagement, e-commerce and mobile internet use.
As of 2023, LATAM boasted more than 460 million internet users, a number expected to grow even further in years to come. However, together with this growing digital presence comes the significant challenge in ensuring that internet usage is safe, secure and inclusive.
In many LATAM countries, internet infrastructure and digital literacy levels vary widely, with rural areas often facing limited access to high-quality internet services. Additionally, cybersecurity threats, online harassment and privacy concerns are pervasive issues.
Mexico and Brazil are frequently ranked as some of the most dangerous countries in Latin America in terms of cybercrime and digital security threats. For international agencies navigating LATAM’s digital landscape, these challenges present both obstacles and opportunities.
On one hand, agencies can develop strategies and technologies that address the region’s diverse digital needs. On the other, they can also play a crucial role in promoting digital safety, education and awareness in an increasingly connected world.
Latin America’s Challenges in Cyber Security
Latin America is experiencing an unprecedented digital transformation. Over 70% of its population is connected online, and digital platforms are increasingly shaping everyday life, from social interactions to commerce and education. While this brings many benefits, it also opens the door to various online risks, particularly misinformation and cybercrime.
The Threat of Misinformation
Misinformation, or the spread of false or misleading information, has become a widespread issue in many Latin American countries. Social media platforms, where news is rapidly disseminated, are often fertile ground for rumours, fake news and conspiracy theories.
In regions with lower media literacy, especially in Latin America, although internet access is increasing, rural areas and even urban areas struggle with below average levels of media literacy. This impacts the level of access to reliable information and the ability to critically engage with the media.
They also may struggle to distinguish credible sources from misleading ones, which can exacerbate public confusion, sow distrust or even influence political outcomes. The impact of misinformation is not only harmful to public discourse but also undermines trust in institutions, media companies and public health.
The Rise of Online Fraud
Latin America is particularly vulnerable to online fraud for several interrelated reasons, such as socio-economic conditions, digital infrastructure, lack of cybersecurity awareness, as well as the rapid growth of digital technology without corresponding safeguards.
Phishing scams, identity theft and fraudulent online stores are just some of the common methods used by cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting individuals. With the growing use of online banking, e-commerce and social networks, personal and financial data is more exposed than ever before.
The consequences can be devastating, from financial losses to personal information being used for illicit purposes. For this reason, alongside misinformation, online fraud is also a growing, persistent concern.
The Role of Education and Awareness
Safer Internet Day serves as a reminder of the need for comprehensive digital literacy programs, especially in Latin America, where digital skills vary widely across different segments of society.
Education plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with the tools they need to navigate the online world safely. This includes understanding how to identify misinformation, recognizing phishing attempts and protecting personal data.
Governments, civil society and tech companies must work together to promote digital citizenship. Policies that encourage transparency from social media platforms —along with collaborative efforts to counter fake news— are essential.
Initiatives like Safer Internet Day should also inspire individuals to stay informed, report online fraud and be proactive in securing their personal information.
Key Insights for International Agencies Navigating LATAM’s Digital Landscape
To successfully navigate LATAM’s digital landscape, in its risks and opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to a safer digital environment, international agencies should consider some insights.
1. Understanding the Region’s Digital Diversity
LATAM is a diverse region encompassing varying levels of digital infrastructure, internet access and digital literacy. Countries such as Brazil, Mexico and Argentina have high levels of internet penetration, while others, particularly in Central America and parts of South America, still face significant connectivity gaps.
Despite their similarities, it’s important to dive into each country’s particularities and nuances when it comes to internet and cybersecurity. International agencies must tailor their strategies based on local realities, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach may not cut it.
Agencies operating in rural or underserved areas should focus on providing basic digital literacy training and internet safety tips, while in more urbanized areas campaigns can focus on advanced topics such as cybersecurity, online privacy and the ethical use of technology.
2. Leveraging Local Partnerships for Maximum Impact
The success of digital safety initiatives in LATAM depends heavily on local collaboration. International agencies should partner up with local NGOs, government bodies and educational institutions to deliver tailored solutions.
By working closely with local organizations, agencies can better understand the specific challenges faced by different communities and create targeted programs in order to address these requirements and needs.
3. Focusing on Digital Inclusion and Accessibility
While Safer Internet Day focuses primarily on safety, it’s essential to ensure that digital inclusion and accessibility are prioritized in any initiatives. In LATAM, many people still face barriers to full participation in the digital world due to issues such as economic inequality, limited access to technology and lack of digital literacy.
4. Emphasizing Education and Prevention
Preventing online risks through education is key to building a safer internet. International agencies can support Safer Internet Day by providing educational materials, online courses and workshops that help people —including their employers and clients— recognize and avoid digital threats.
These initiatives should focus not only on children and teenagers, but also on adults who may lack the knowledge or skills to navigate the digital world safely.
5. Promoting Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Awareness
Data privacy and cybersecurity are critical issues in LATAM, with many countries facing growing concerns about data breaches, identity theft and online fraud.
International agencies can play a key role by offering resources that help individuals understand how to protect their personal information, use strong passwords and recognize phishing attempts. Promoting the importance of cybersecurity for businesses can help elevate the overall security posture of the region.
Safer Internet Day offers international companies an invaluable opportunity to contribute to the growing digital safety movement in Latin America not only on any particular day but throughout the whole year. And by focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of LATAM’s digital landscape, a genuinely meaningful difference can be made in improving internet safety within the region.