It’s Safer Internet Day and the theme in 2026 is ‘Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI’. Over the coming days, we will publish tips and info on how to recognise Artificial Intelligence (AI) online and use it responsibly.

But first, let’s review the basics of keeping yourself safe on the internet:

Keep your…

…accounts safe

• Set secure passwords and change them regularly
• Set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
• Use password managers to avoid misremembering passwords or needing to write them down

What has AI to do with it? Privacy violations are a common risk of (generative) AI. They can be hacked, for example with AI jailbreak or prompt injection. Do not share sensitive information like your passwords with AI.

…devices safe

• Lock your computer whenever you leave your desk unattended (even if it is just for a few minutes)
• Keep your device (laptop, phone, tablets) software up-to-date
• Use an antivirus program and a firewall

What has AI to do with it? AI introduced a variety of new devices and fucntions that can help and hinder safety. Smart watches, smart glasses or Global Positioning System (GPS) support can help with physical health, and accessibility. They could also collect and sell your data unknowingly or be used to survey and stalk others.

…online chats safe

• Use encrypted messaging wherever possible
• Make use of the Block function – no one should make you feel uncomfortable, or threatened online. Block and report them if they do.
• Be careful when sharing personal information – make sure you vet the platform and the person before sharing identifiable or sensitive data. Less is more!

What has AI to do with it? Keep an eye out for phising messages or emails. AI has made it even easier for scammers to write convincing texts – if it does not look right, it probably is not!

Resources to stay safe online:

• Test your knowledge with the Safer Internet Day Quizzes – technically aimed at school aged children, but arguably useful for any age to learn safer dealing with AI
• The UK Government’s AI Security Institute publishes blogs and research on AI security
• The UK Government’s National Cyber Security Centre published Top tips for staying secure online
• The University’s Information Security team offer excellent resources for online safety
• Police Scotland’s Internet Safety resources

Keep an eye out for our upcoming AI Safety pages on the Digital Safety, Wellbeing and Citizenship Hub

Safer Internet Day 2026 / Digital Skills, Design and Training by is licensed under a