In an era where virtually every child has a ticket to the internet, the pressing question looms large: How many of them navigate the digital realm with an awareness of its shadows? The expansive online world holds not just opportunities but potential pitfalls, from various forms of abuse to looming threats. The real challenge emerges in gauging how many children, along with their parents, possess the adeptness and awareness to navigate the darker corners of the internet, ensuring a shield against potential harm and fostering a secure digital journey.
On this Children's Day, as we celebrate the essence of innocence, we shed light on the SOS-Forum - a collaborative effort by Missing Link Trust and CyberPeace in partnership with PVR Cinemas. This initiative stands as a formidable force against online child sexual abuse, working tirelessly to empower students to assert their digital rights. The SOS-Forum, part of the #SOS campaign, connects students and professionals across various fields to raise awareness about online abuse. Operating a Child Online Safety Desk, it engages students in discussions on cyberbullying, online privacy, and cybercrime prevention. Through creative expressions, students highlight issues like child trafficking.
TheCSRUniverse engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the three key figures leading the SOS Campaign - Leena Kejriwal, Founder, Missing Link Trust; Major Vineet Kumar, Founder & Global President, CyberPeace; and Deepa Menon, Founder Head, PVR NEST. They share insights on the challenges, strategies, impacts of the SOS Campaign, and their meaningful contributions to the cause. From urgent calls for resilient shields to collaborative efforts and the unique role of SOS-Forum, their perspectives offer a holistic view of the campaign's mission to safeguard the digital innocence of children.
Continue scrolling to explore in-depth insights, unveiling the challenges, strategies, and significant impact of this crucial initiative.
Interview 1:
Spokesperson: Leena Kejriwal, Founder, Missing Link Trust
Q. In today's digital age, how does the SOS Campaign's PSA film leverage technology and online platforms to raise awareness about online child sexual abuse and cyber safety?
A. We are all spending more and more time online today, including children, which makes them extremely vulnerable to predators and trolls. It is crucial to prepare them for the dangers they may encounter from cyber bullying and other forms of cyber abuse which can scar their social development for life. ‘Stop Online Stalkers’ or #SOS spans offline and online interaction with students and parents, sensitising them to the issue and offering them information and assistance. The PSA film is an evocative depiction of how the issue is experienced by children, very harmlessly at first and then becomes ominous quickly. It effectively fills the viewer with concern and opens their eyes to the seriousness of the problem. India’s children face the highest risk of online abuse, with a child being abused every 10 minutes.
Our collaboration with PVR INOX Cinemas with its 1700 screens and access to 20 million viewers will help in taking the PSA swiftly to its target beneficiaries - the public across India, which includes children, parents and all concerned members of society who can help make this country safer for our children.
The SOS Campaign is also live on all our social media platforms and we invite conscientious, responsible and aware citizens to engage with the online SOS Community by signing up here: SOS Campaign
Q. With the increasing prevalence of online communication, how crucial is the SOS Child Online Safety Desk, the WhatsApp-based tool, in providing timely support to those facing online threats?
A. The SOS Child Online Safety Desk, which is a whatsapp chatbot available at 60030 60040, has been created by us to offer 24/7 information and resources to anyone from a distressed child, worried parent, concerned teacher, or just a proactive community member who wants to know more or report ongoing abuse anonymously.
While the PSA film gives everyone a clear understanding of the nature of cyberspace today, the chatbot will give them clear actionables and resources to keep themselves and loved ones safe, thus being an extremely effective tool in combating online threats and risks.
Q. Given the current online landscape, what challenges does the SOS-Forum encounter in fostering a community dialogue and empowering students to protect their digital rights?
A. One of the biggest challenges that SOS Forum encounters in empowering students to protect themselves is the fact that the online world is constantly evolving.
Today online abuse of children poses a huge threat as children fall prey to predators, even while sitting in the privacy of their own bedrooms without the knowledge of their parents and caregivers. The face of trafficking has been rapidly changing to take neither the form of online trafficking nor impacting millions of people more, since it’s bound neither by geography nor the logistics of the trafficker.
Indian children reach mobile maturity faster than kids in the rest of the world, making them easy prey. It has given predators easier access to children and accelerated the rise of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) in India. CSAM is explicit images and videos of minors under the age of 18 involved in sexual activity. India ranks at the top of the list with 56 lakh reports of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) in 2022.
In addition to a lot of knowledge exchange opportunities, the online world has exposed children to age inappropriate content. Online predators have used this opportunity to exploit the curious and exploring nature of adolescents through grooming. Not just teens, even pre-teens are exposed to inappropriate material, leading to the creation of CSAM and what is most shocking is that a lot of CSAM is self-generated. Many porn sites host illegal clips and videos of unaware adolescents and children. All this material is recycled, viewed and consumed again and again, creating a permanent digital footprint of children. This is intensely damaging to a child, emotionally and in every other way.
Q. In a world where online threats are evolving rapidly, how does Save Missing Girls incorporate modern technologies and digital literacy to combat child trafficking?
A. The internet accelerated sex trafficking and CSAM across the world. But it is also the key to addressing this issue, as it can help trace traffickers and abusers. Naturally, with technology evolving rapidly, the dangers it brings also evolve and take newer and more subtle forms. Education and awareness-building amongst the vulnerable, i.e. children, then becomes the challenge. Ensuring that adolescents are well versed with these technologies and how to use them to stay safe, is what #SOS is about.
Save Missing Girls is also actively involved in on-ground awareness building in schools through a powerful safety awareness program, MASSp, designed to address the personal safety and empowerment needs of adolescents. The curriculum has been designed after research and feedback from adolescents. It addresses both online and offline safety concerns of adolescents, whose lives constantly weave in and out of physical and virtual spaces, addressing all aspects of cyber safety and security.
MASSp follows a design thinking approach, co-designing the curriculum and formats with learners. Approved by the NCERT, this is a dynamic program that will keep updating as technology evolves. The program is available to students through a web-portal, a chatbot enabled Whatsapp or as live classroom sessions.
MASSp is being disseminated to students through schools in different parts of the country, creating ripples of awareness that will help combat child trafficking.
Q. In the context of today's global awareness campaigns, how has the "Missing Girl silhouette" symbol contributed to the fight against online child exploitation?
A. The Missing Girl Silhouette is an inclusive and powerful way for engaging the public in owning the campaign to end demand for trafficking. It embraces the ability of art to transcend languages and evoke strong emotions in onlookers to play their part in spreading awareness.
The silhouette of a young girl symbolises a black hole into which millions of girls disappear without a trace. It is a constant reminder, a living memorial to millions of missing girls in India and across the world. The artwork also shared the important information, the number 1098 which was the pan-India Childline helpline for children who go missing. The mural project is a powerful way of engaging with and communicating to the public, the urgency and scale of the issue of trafficking. It sensitises communities to their role in the rising figures of sex trafficking, and urges them to get proactive.
Q. What tools and strategies does the SOS Campaign employ to engage and raise awareness about online child sexual abuse and cyber safety, especially in the digital age?
A. The Stop Online Stalkers or #SOS Campaign as an urgent intervention to tackle the distressing spike in online CSA in India.
Every 10 minutes a child in India either goes missing or is abused.
- The SOS Campaign has kicked off with an awareness-building Public Service Announcement (PSA) film on the issue, created by Save Missing Girls and our cyber vigilante partners, CyberPeace. It is currently being shown across the country at PVR INOX Cinemas, reaching nearly 20 million parents, families, and children. The PSA gives everyone a clear understanding of the nature and dangers of cyberspace today. The PSA film also introduces the SOS Child Online Safety Desk, an innovative chatbot enabled WhatsApp tool developed by us, to provide 24/7 information and assistance to parents and children grappling with this issue, by connecting with 60030 60040.
- The SOS Forum is an onground engagement with schools across Indian metros and their students, where the students are invited to share their experiences and concerns related to cybersafety. Every SOS Forum has a panel of subject experts attending, from cyber safety, educators, law enforcement and legal professionals as well as mental health experts, to respond to anything that the students want to address. SOS Forum is our attempt to create a safe space for children, and promote an open and trusting communication on the issue of cyber-safety between them and experts, teachers, parents, lawyers and society at large. We have hosted SOS Forum at multiple cities in Kolkata, Ranchi and Delhi.
- The SOSMums, is an initiative we are proud of, which sensitises concerned mothers to the issue, and encourages them to spread awareness about it by sharing the PSA and the SOS Help Desk number on social media. In 20 days since the SOS campaign launched, the PSA has been shared by 75 plus mothers on their instagram, as advocates for children’s online safety. This is the beginning of the SOS Community, our ultimate aim, a collective comprising vigilant members of society committed to making the world safer for our children, both online and offline.
- Screening of ‘From the Shadows’, a documentary film on child-trafficking in India at PVR Juhu, Mumbai. The internationally acclaimed documentary directed by Miriam Chandy Menacherry, showcases the extent of child trafficking in our country and the work being done by anti-traffickers like Leena Kejriwal. This was followed by an open discussion on children’s online safety with subject matter experts - a cyber-psychologist; a data privacy and technology lawyer, a cyber-security specialist.
- SOS Landing page on the Save Missing Girls Website. A responsible and aware citizen can sign up to engage with the online SOS community.
Q. Looking ahead, what are the long-term positive impacts that the SOS Campaign hopes to achieve in the fight against online child sexual abuse and for the promotion of cyber safety?
A. The SOS Campaign hopes to keep the momentum that it has garnered among various stakeholders - children, parents, schools, mothers, psychologists, cyber safety experts, law enforcement officials, etc. and keep the dialogue going on curbing online CSA.
Through the implementation of this campaign, our primary objective is to effectively dismantle the prevailing silence surrounding online child sexual abuse and CSAM, thereby setting the stage for a robust and open dialogue to ensue encouraging candid conversations and fostering greater awareness.
Interview 2:
Spokesperson: Major Vineet Kumar, Founder and Global President, CyberPeace
Q. How does CyberPeace enhance cyber safety and protect children from online threats within the SOS Forum, and what challenges have you encountered in this role?
A. The SOS Forum initiative has effectively engaged a substantial number of children and parents through a multifaceted approach. This achievement primarily hinges on the deployment of talk shows at prominent PVR-INOX locations, as well as a concerted effort on various social media platforms. Notably, CyberPeace has undertaken significant steps in the conceptualization and presentation of a distinctive Public Service Announcement (PSA) under the banner of #SOS films. This initiative is aimed at educating an estimated audience of nearly 20 million parents, families, and children, providing a comprehensive exposé of the inherent risks in the digital realm.
Moreover, CyberPeace has played a pivotal role in propagating awareness pertaining to the perils associated with unmonitored internet access during our talk show events. In collaboration with the Missing Link Trust, we have inaugurated a dedicated WhatsApp SOS Child Online Safety Desk (at 60030 60040) specifically designed to address online issues faced by children. Major Vineet Kumar, the Founder and Global President of CyberPeace, has been instrumental in providing invaluable guidance to students, stressing the paramount importance of safeguarding their digital presence and taking requisite measures. His counsel has also extended to encouraging students to seek support and guidance from their parents and teachers.
One of the prominent challenges we encountered involved effectively communicating the gravity of cybercrimes and their dire consequences to the students. Online threats such as cyberbullying, cyberstalking, sextortion, grooming have been on a concerning rise, with many cases remaining unreported owing to children's reticence in sharing their experiences. The associated trauma and shame often serve as significant deterrents to open discourse on these issues. Through the SOS Forum, we have successfully conveyed to children the presence of a supportive community ready to aid them in addressing these distressing situations.
Q. Can you share recent examples of successful collaborations demonstrating the impact of technology in promoting online child safety and cybersecurity?
A. CyberPeace has initiated a series of campaigns and competitions, with a primary focus on promoting online child safety and cybersecurity, wherein children play a pivotal role. Notable among these initiatives are the Digital Shakti Campaign, eRaksha competition, and CyberSkool.
The Digital Shakti Campaign, conducted in partnership with the National Commission for Women, Meta, and Autobot Infosec, is dedicated to empowering women and children in the online realm. Since its inception in 2018, this initiative has significantly benefited over 4,50,000 children and internet users through a comprehensive array of programs covering various cyber-related subjects. Over the span of four years, numerous workshops have been conducted, adopting both in-person and hybrid formats.
The eRaksha campaign, held annually for the past five years, originally established in collaboration with NCERT, MEITY, NCRB and NCPCR. This national-level competition not only encourages children but also educators, educational institutions, and caregivers to actively engage and share their insights on the vital subject of cybersecurity and the significance of a secure cyberspace. Since its inception in 2019, the competition has drawn participation from over 1,00,000 individuals and has garnered support from esteemed organizations such as UNICEF India, Whatsapp, Google, Maltego, Autobot Infosec, and Twitter.
In addition to these initiatives, CyberPeace introduced the CyberSkool campaign, aimed at educating students about various cyber threats, encompassing issues like cyberbullying, cyberstalking, CSAM, and malware such as ransomware, viruses, trojans, and spyware. These threats entail the theft of sensitive information, including usernames, passwords, credit/debit card details through fraudulent websites, email security vulnerabilities, unauthorized data access (data breaches), and online financial fraud, among other malevolent activities. The primary objective of this initiative is to underscore the importance of upholding cyber hygiene by consistently securing ICT devices and educating internet users on responsible online behavior.
Q. How does CyberPeace address evolving online child sexual abuse challenges within the SOS Forum, and what strategies do you use to raise awareness and empower communities?
A. CyberPeace has undertaken comprehensive research pertaining to the escalating cybersecurity threats and the associated challenges concerning online sexual exploitation of minors. As a result of our efforts, we have acquired an in-depth comprehension of the methodologies employed in targeting and victimizing children in online environments. Furthermore, we are well-prepared to impart education to young individuals, enabling them to discern and preempt these perils, while also equipping them with the knowledge required to respond effectively when confronted with such threats.
Q. What unique role does technology play in advancing SOS Forum's goals of protecting children from online exploitation and cyber threats?
A. Technology plays a pivotal role in providing a diverse range of innovative solutions and capabilities that are essential in the combat against online exploitation and cyber threats targeting children. It equips us with the requisite tools for early detection, prevention, and response, thereby establishing itself as an unparalleled and invaluable asset in safeguarding children online, particularly through initiatives such as the SOS Forum.
For instance, the SOS Child Online Safety Desk (60030 60040) functions as a cutting-edge chatbot that delivers 24/7 information and assistance to parents and children grappling with these challenges as part of the SOS campaign.
Furthermore, technology can be leveraged to discern patterns of online stalking, trafficking, and other potential threats against children. Prominent instances involve the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms. These technology-driven approaches for content control can be implemented across various online platforms, social media, and communication channels. Their function is the automatic identification and removal of inappropriate or harmful content, such as explicit material targeting children or instances of cyberbullying.
An exemplar manifestation of technology's role is evident through the endeavors of our in-house research team. Through the CyberPeace initiative, the Centre of Excellence (CoE), we collaborate with researchers at both national and international levels, working in coordination with numerous educational institutions worldwide. The CyberPeace initiative empowers professionals with specialized expertise in cybersecurity. This network of highly trained individuals engages in research and utilizes specialized tools, including packets and crawlers, to delve into the deep and dark web, diligently monitoring various forms of cyber-related crimes.
Their research is dedicated to identifying, tracking, and reporting the presence and dissemination of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The researchers take an additional step by tracing the origins of these materials and promptly reporting their findings to the relevant authorities for necessary actions.
Q. How does CyberPeace adapt its approach within the SOS Forum to effectively protect children and communities from evolving cyber dangers?
A. As previously mentioned, CyberPeace maintains an extensive in-house research team as an integral component of its Centers of Excellence (CoEs). This dedicated team is composed of adept researchers who harness state-of-the-art AI-driven web crawling methodologies to meticulously surveil the depths of the web, including the dark web. Their primary mission centers on the mitigation of child safety concerns, encompassing issues such as child trafficking, the distribution, and trade of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), and related matters. We also actively engage in digital tracking and monitoring initiatives. Should we detect any impending threats to the welfare of children, we expeditiously collaborate with on-site partners and law enforcement agencies to initiate requisite interventions.
Moreover, our organization maintains an unwavering vigilance, continuously enhancing its understanding of the ever-evolving strategies employed by malefactors to exploit vulnerable children. As a result, we remain consistently well-prepared to comprehend and address these intricate scenarios, ensuring the provision of essential assistance whenever the need arises.
Q. Could you explain how the SOS Forum and CyberPeace collaborate to educate families about online risks, aligning with the SOS Campaign's goals?
A. In the context of the SOS Campaign, it became evident that focus on children exclusively would not generate enduring impact. As a result, we made the strategic decision to involve families in our endeavors. We extended invitations to both educators and students, inviting their active participation in televised talk shows. These sessions were designed not only to respond to students' queries but also to address inquiries posed by teachers.
Moreover, we initiated outreach to parents through the screening of Public Service Announcements (PSAs) in PVR theaters across the nation at regular intervals. In addition, we established partnerships with a diverse group of influential Mom Bloggers who played an instrumental role in disseminating our message and fostering awareness through their respective online platforms. This concerted effort significantly expanded our outreach to parents and families.
Q. What long-term impacts and positive changes does CyberPeace envision within the SOS Forum for creating a safer online environment?
A. CyberPeace envisions the cultivation of a safer cyberspace characterized by principles of acceptance, kindness, and tolerance. To realize this vision, CyberPeace has embarked upon several strategic initiatives. Among these endeavors, the SOS Forum is dedicated to raising awareness among minors concerning the multifaceted array of online risks, encompassing cyberbullying, cyber harassment, sexual harassment, and the dissemination of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). Moreover, it seeks to empower parents with a nuanced understanding of the requisite commitment and awareness needed to safeguard their children within the online milieu.
The overarching objective and anticipated long-term impact of this campaign is the instigation of enduring shifts in the behaviour and practices of internet users. CyberPeace envisions that this initiative will motivate parents to exercise heightened vigilance over their children's online activities and exposure.
Q. How does the partnership between CyberPeace and the SOS Forum contribute to the SOS Campaign's mission in preventing online child sexual abuse and promoting cyber safety in educational and community contexts?
A. The collaboration between CyberPeace and the SOS Forum represents a significant contribution to the overarching mission of ensuring the safety of children from online sexual abuse and cultivating a secure cyber environment. CyberPeace leverages its extensive technical expertise in the domains of cybersecurity, threat analysis, and technological solutions, which plays a pivotal role in the development and deployment of tools dedicated to the detection and mitigation of online child sexual abuse.
One noteworthy achievement within our collaboration is our partnership with the Missing Link Trust, which has resulted in the creation and nationwide dissemination of a Public Service Announcement (PSA). This PSA serves as a comprehensive exploration of the inherent dangers in the digital realm, offering a holistic solution tailored to the unique needs of both parents and children in the context of online safety.
Furthermore, we have taken the proactive step of launching the SOS Child Online Safety Desk, which is accessible 24/7 through the dedicated phone lines 60030 and 60040. This specialized service has been designed to provide essential information and immediate assistance to parents and children facing issues related to online safety.
Interview 3:
Spokesperson: Deepa Menon, Founder Head, PVR NEST
Q. Could you elaborate on PVR NEST 's specific contributions and challenges as a partner in the SOS Forum, especially in the context of raising awareness about online child sexual abuse and cyber safety?
A. PVR NEST, the corporate social responsibility arm of PVR INOX Limited, India’s largest film exhibition company, partnered with Save Missing Girls and CyberPeace Foundation to launch the “Stop Online Stalkers” or #SOS campaign, a nationwide initiative to safeguard children against the danger of online child trafficking.
PVR INOX screened the first of-its-kind Public Service Announcement (PSA) #SOS films in its PAN India cinemas to create awareness in nearly 20 million parents, families, and children on online cyber safety on sexual abuse. It also provided a platform for direct engagement with schoolchildren and teachers through interactive talk shows on SOS and leveraged its network to raise awareness and mobilize support for the cause of online child safety.
Considering PVR NEST works in urban settlement areas and communities and outreach among rural and remote areas, though a highly vulnerable segment was a challenge due to limited access to internet and low level of digital literacy. There is a stigma and taboo attached to online child sexual abuse and cyber safety, which prevents many people to seek professional help and reporting the incidents.
Q. How does PVR NEST's engagement with the SOS Forum align with its broader CSR initiatives, and what unique challenges does it face in addressing online safety issues?
A. Our association with the SOS Forum aligns with its broader CSR initiatives. Its childscapes program creates safe and inclusive spaces for children and youth through its safe city program. PVR NEST helped in amplifying the cause through its digital media assets and PVR INOX Big Screens reaching out to diversified audiences located in Tier-1, Tier-3 and Tier-3 cities to create positive social impact. PVR NEST vision is completely aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
There is a lack of comprehensive legislation and regulation regarding online safety for children and there needs to be stricter laws to enforce online children protection. The widespread access to technology, new emerging platforms and apps which are highly addictive creating imbalances in online and offline lives making it challenging for regulators and parents to monitor misuse. Awareness campaigns and parental controls can help mitigate this issue
Q. In the current digital landscape, what role does PVR NEST play in supporting the SOS Campaign's efforts to educate viewers about the risks and challenges of cyberspace through PSA films?
A. Cinema has always been a powerful medium, not only for entertainment but also for reflecting and influencing society. They have the ability to shape public opinion and even drive social change. PVR NEST supports the SOS Campaign’s efforts to create awareness amongst PVR INOX cinema viewers about the risks and challenges of cyberspace by running its PSA films. Cinema is a powerful tool to address social issues and advocates for positive transformations.
Q. Can you share insights into how PVR NEST collaborates with the SOS Campaign to ensure that the SOS Child Online Safety Desk reaches and assists those in need effectively, considering the evolving online threats?
A. We provided a platform for direct engagement with schoolchildren and teachers in the form of interactive talk shows on SOS Forums. These forums educated and empowered children and teachers on how to identify, prevent, and report online abuse and exploitation. PVR NEST through its parent organization, PVR INOX maximizes its network and influence in the film industry to raise awareness and mobilize support for the cause of online child safety. PVR NEST supports the establishment of the SOS Child Online Safety Desk 60030 60040, an innovative chatbot that provides 24/7 information and assistance to parents and children grappling with this issue, created by Save Missing Girls in partnership with CyberPeace. The chatbot offers resources such as helpline numbers, reporting mechanisms, cyber laws, safety tips, and FAQs on online child abuse and trafficking.
Q. What challenges and opportunities has PVR NEST encountered in its partnership with the SOS Forum in creating a safer online space for children, and how does it navigate these challenges in today's context?
A. Our programs have always endeavoured to create safe spaces for women and children. PVR NEST through its community outreach programs centered around Pink Centres and Garima Grih helps in creating forums for discussions among the target groups.
SDG (Start Doing Good) represents a collaborative effort between PVR INOX and communities, aimed at fostering dialogue, action-oriented projects, and conferences centered around the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This campaign forges partnerships with organizations dedicated to long-term commitments toward these global objectives. The campaign design design encompasses; Public Service Announcement (PSA) – SDG Films, Youth Conference and Voices, SDG Digital Acceleration on social media and Action based Projects
Q. Can you provide examples of the tangible impact that PVR NEST 's involvement in the SOS Forum has had on creating a safer online space for children and families, and how this contributes to the organization's broader CSR goals?
A. Our collaboration with the SOS Forum has resulted in tangible impacts, such as increased awareness and dialogue on online child safety among millions of cinemagoers and PVR NEST communities. Through initiatives like PSA screenings and interactive talk shows, we've improved access to information and assistance via the SOS Child Online Safety Desk. These efforts align seamlessly with our CSR goals of providing a safe environment for all. Looking ahead, PVR NEST aims to expand its reach, strengthen partnerships, innovate and align with UN SDGs, anticipating heightened awareness, improved cyber safety, and reduced incidents of online child abuse and trafficking in the years to come.
Q. In closing, how does PVR NEST envision its continued role in the SOS Forum contributing to creating a safer online environment for children and communities, and what positive changes do you anticipate in the years to come?
A. The organization foresees a sustained role in the SOS Forum to advance online safety for children and communities. We plan to expand our reach, particularly in urban communities, strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders, promote innovation, and align with UN Sustainable Development Goals. These efforts are expected to result in increased awareness, broader access to assistance, enhance cyber safety, and a decrease in online child abuse and trafficking cases in the years ahead, creating a safer online environment that protects the most vulnerable members of society.
