Article by Georgia Solomou, Founder & President of W4C Cyprus, Managing Partner OSPHERA.
In today’s digital age, children are among the most active – yet most vulnerable – users of the internet. The online world opens doors to limitless opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection. At the same time, however, it also presents serious risks: cyberbullying, fraud, misinformation, and threats to privacy and security.
At Women4Cyber Cyprus, we believe that every child should be able to explore the internet with confidence and safety, while also embracing its potential as a powerful tool for growth and discovery. The digital world is here to stay – and our responsibility is to equip young people with the skills and awareness they need to thrive within it.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
One of our key missions is to help children navigate the digital landscape responsibly. This means not only shielding them from online dangers but also empowering them to recognize risks, make informed choices, and build resilience. In other words: we don’t just want to protect children online – we want to prepare them to succeed online.
HackShield: Learning Cyber Safety Through Play
That is why we are proud to be a strategic partner of the HackShield gaming platform, made available in Cyprus through the Office of the Commissioner of Communications. HackShield is open to all children across Cyprus, offering a unique and engaging way to learn about cybersecurity.
Unlike traditional methods of teaching, HackShield transforms online safety into an interactive adventure. Children learn how to identify threats, protect their privacy, and develop critical thinking skills – all while having fun. Even more inspiring is the ripple effect: children often share what they learn with parents and grandparents, raising awareness across generations and bridging the digital knowledge gap within families.
Building Responsible Digital Citizens
At Women4Cyber Cyprus, we firmly believe that education is the most effective defense against online risks. By introducing these skills early in life, we empower the next generation to become responsible digital citizens. At the same time, we ensure that they can enjoy all the positive aspects of the internet – learning, social connection, entertainment, and creativity – without compromising their safety.
Shaping a Safer Digital Future
Protecting children online is not just about the present. It is about shaping a safer, stronger digital society for the future. Every child we educate today is a future adult who will know how to use technology wisely, responsibly, and securely.
At Women4Cyber Cyprus, we remain committed to this mission: ensuring that our children are not only safe online but also empowered to embrace all the opportunities the digital world has to offer.