.. Safer Internet Day ..
The Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology (ictQATAR) marked the 10th annual Safer Internet Day through a public event about online rights and responsibilities organised in partnership with Qatar University and Qatar Debate yesterday, at Qatar University. Titled ‘Connect With Respect’.
''We would like the world to celebrate Safer Internet Day through ‘Connect With Respect’ organised jointly with Qatar University and Qatar Debate to raise awareness
about the challenges faced by Internet users.We need to be aware that we have a shared responsibility to make the
Internet a safer and better place for all,” said Fatma Al
Nuaimi, Cyber Safety Section Manager, ICT & Society
Division, ictQATAR.
In her opening remarks, Dr Bana Buzaboon, a psychologist,
highlighted the challenges today’s youth faces while in
cyber space. She also addressed the psychological and social risks resulting from irresponsible use of the Internet as well as the responsibilities and behaviours
the youth should observe while communicating with others
through the Internet. Buzaboon recommended a set of guidelines for the youth to keep themselves safe online,
namely enabling the secure browsing functionality in the
social networks, not to befriend any unknown persons, communicate responsibly and to not violate the others’ privacy. She emphasised the importance of respecting others’ opinion during discussions on a topic or even adding comments on posts.
Safer Internet Day has grown beyond its traditional geographic zone and is now celebrated in more than 90 countries worldwide, and across six of the world’s
seven continents. THE PENINSULA
'Qatari authorities are contemplating more protectionist measures including stricter monitoring of cyber traffic to protect youth from exposure to inappropriate online content like pornography or hate material deemed offensive to religion and culture.'
'Officials at the ictQATAR — a body that regulates telecommunications in the country — told Gulf Times yesterday the decision to further tighten cyber regime is taken after recent surveys suggest almost 30% youth are vulnerable to unsuitable substance.'
'Though these surveys do not explicitly mention what falls under the category of inappropriate content, officials said it is a veiled reference to pornography and emotionally disturbing words and images.
In most cases, they explained, it is insulting to religion, culture and morality.'
'Experts believe fresh measures will put more curbs on Internet accessibility in Qatar......Officials, however, did not elaborate what else would constitute the contours of new regulations because proposals are still at the initial stage.
They also appeared unsure how long it can take before overhauling of laws actually takes place.'
http://www.gulf-times.com/qatar/178/details/343883/qatar-mulls-more-steps-to-block-cyber-crime
Sounds like a trojan horse move to secure more censorship if you ask me.