At the 14th Spletno oko Conference, held on September 30, 2024, at the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, Boris Radanović, Head of Engagements and Partnerships at SWGfL, presented to address the pressing issue of protecting vulnerable groups online. Representing the UK Safer Internet Centre (UKSIC), Boris participated in this international gathering of experts, which was streamed live on YouTube, focusing on combatting child sexual abuse online.
Spletno oko Conference
The Spletno oko Conference is an annual event that brings together international experts, organisations, and stakeholders to address critical issues related to online safety, with a strong focus on combating child sexual abuse and exploitation in digital spaces. Hosted by Slovenia's national hotline, the conference is a platform for sharing knowledge, strategies, and solutions aimed at protecting vulnerable groups from online harm.
Now in its 14th year, the conference highlights key topics such as online child protection, the prevention of non-consensual image sharing, digital privacy, and the role of technology in safeguarding users. It encourages collaboration between industry professionals, government bodies, NGOs, and educators, fostering an international dialogue on how to create a safer internet for all, especially children and other vulnerable groups.
The event also serves as a showcase for innovative tools and initiatives that address online risks, providing a venue for thought leaders to exchange best practices and discuss emerging trends in the fight against online exploitation. It is an important gathering for anyone invested in making the internet a safer and more secure space.
Protecting Young People Online
In his presentation, Boris highlighted the disproportionate risks faced by vulnerable groups, especially children, in the digital space. He explained how children are at heightened risk of online exploitation and grooming due to their extensive use of social media. His session was solution-driven, showcasing tools like StopNCII.org, which defends against the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, and Take It Down, a platform that allows individuals under the age of 18 to swiftly remove nude images.
Boris underscored the importance of collaboration between technology platforms and safety initiatives, advocating for stronger partnerships to provide victims with effective resources. His presentation reaffirmed SWGfL's ongoing dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals from digital harm and reinforced the need for international cooperation in safeguarding children from online exploitation.
The Spletno oko Conference served as an essential platform for SWGfL to share its expertise and collaborate with global leaders in the fight against online harm.