Training course in the field of personal data protection organized for students of the Art School of Ialoveni

       On December 3, the National Center for Personal Data Protection (NCPDP) continued the national campaign to inform and raise awareness among students regarding the protection of privacy in the digital environment. In this context, the institution organized the training course “Protection of personal data and children’s safety in the online environment”, intended for students of the Art School in Ialoveni.

       The main objective of the activity was to familiarize children with the notion of personal data, as well as to understand how this information should be managed in everyday life. NCPDP trainers focused on:

• explaining the difference between simple personal data, sensitive data and public information;
• identifying situations in which children’s data may be collected or used abusively;
• understanding the rights that minors have in relation to data protection and digital safety.

       The crucial goal of the session was to develop self-protection skills in the online environment, so that students would be aware of the importance of prudent and responsible behavior when interacting on the internet.

       In an ever-changing digital context, children are among the most exposed to various online risks – from excessive data collection to cyberbullying, phishing, or contact with unknown people. Through this course, students:

•  understood why data such as full name, address, phone number, photos, location or passwords must be carefully protected;
• found out how their information can be used by malicious individuals, including for manipulation or fraud purposes;
• discovered the role of privacy settings, strong passwords and checking sources before accessing a link or sharing content.

       The emphasis was on the idea that digital safety is a personal responsibility, and knowing how the online environment works helps them navigate with more confidence and protection.

       The course included interactive discussions, practical examples, and real-life situations that children may face in the digital environment. Among the most important concepts learned are: recognizing personal data and understanding its value; identifying the risks associated with the uncontrolled distribution of online information; critically evaluating digital content, unknown messages and suspicious requests; protective measures: correct use of passwords, activating two-step authentication, reporting abusive behavior; the role of trusted adults – the importance of asking for help when encountering uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situations. Students actively participated in the discussions, asked questions and provided examples from their own experiences, demonstrating interest and openness to the topics addressed.

       Through such activities, NCPDP reaffirms its mission to contribute to creating a culture of data protection among children and young people, promoting a safe, responsible and friendly digital environment. The institution will continue to conduct training in schools across the country, providing accessible information adapted to the age level of the students.

       The event was organized at the initiative of the National Council for the Protection of Children and Youth, training 55 students. At the same time, the information materials, as well as the gifts offered to the students, were developed with the support of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).