As we move closer to February 10^th, Safer Internet Day serves as a reminder to encourage meaningful action, share responsibility and inform behaviour across every part of our organisations, particularly as reliance on digital systems has become so deeply embedded in professional life.

For organisations operating in data rich environments, including those supporting the insurance and claims ecosystem, this focus has never been more relevant, which is why we’re taking the time to reflect on the importance of Safer Internet Day, and highlight exactly how our sector can support its efforts.

Let’s begin with…

Where did Safer Internet Day come from?

Held annually on the second Tuesday of February, Safer Internet Day was first established in 2004 by the European Union as part of the SafeBorders project, with the original aim of promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology among young people.

Over time, the initiative gained momentum and expanded beyond its initial audience, reflecting the reality that online safety is a universal concern that affects individuals of all ages, backgrounds and professions, and today, Safer Internet Day is coordinated globally by the Insafe and INHOPE networks, with participation from more than 180 countries worldwide.

Its goal has always been to bring together governments, businesses, educators, charities and technology providers to promote positive, safe and responsible digital behaviour, however, as the internet itself has evolved over the years, so too has the focus of Safer Internet Day, moving beyond basic online safety into broader discussions around data protection, cyber security, misinformation, digital resilience and trust.

This evolution mirrors the changing risk landscape faced by modern organisations, where digital exposure is no longer limited to IT departments but touches every operational function and customer interaction. As a result, Safer Internet Day has become a broader call to action for organisations to take collective responsibility for how they protect data, manage digital risk and build trust in an increasingly connected environment.

Why is Safer Internet Day important?

In today’s environment, trust has become one of the most valuable currencies any organisation can hold, particularly where sensitive data, personal information and digital evidence are involved.

What’s more, customers and partners increasingly expect that the organisations they engage with will not only deliver efficient service, but also demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting information and operating responsibly online too.

In sectors where incidents, claims and disputes are managed digitally, often under stressful circumstances where confidence and clarity matter most, this customer expectation is especially pronounced, as any single one data breach, system failure or miscommunication can undermine that customer trust quickly, regardless of how strong a relationship may have been previously. Therefore, Safer Internet Day acts as a timely reminder by recognising this, highlighting that digital safety is not a one off initiative, but an ongoing commitment that underpins service quality, brand reputation and long term resilience.

Is Safer Internet Day still relatable today?

Yes, while cyber threats are often discussed in abstract terms, the operational impact can be very real, as phishing attacks, ransomware incidents, unauthorised access and data leakage can disrupt services, delay outcomes and expose organisations to regulatory and reputational risk.

For service providers supporting brokers, insurers and policyholders, these risks extend beyond internal systems into the wider claims journey, where information is shared between multiple parties and decisions are made based on digital evidence and communication. Therefore, maintaining secure processes, clear access controls and robust data handling practices is absolutely essential, not only to meet compliance requirements, but also to ensure that customers feel confident their information is being handled with care at every stage.

Can Safer Internet Day really help promote online safety?

Technology alone cannot create a safer internet, and people are still one of the most important lines of defence when it comes to online risk, which is why yes, categorically, Safer Internet Day can help support and promote online education, awareness and culture.

This is because simple actions such as recognising suspicious communications, understanding data sharing responsibilities and following secure processes can significantly reduce exposure to risk, but equally, creating an organisational culture where staff feel empowered to raise concerns, ask questions and follow best practice plays a crucial role in strengthening digital resilience.

For organisations operating in fast paced, high pressure environments, Safer Internet Day can serve as a catalyst to help embed these behaviours into everyday operations and ensure that safety is maintained even when volumes increase or situations become complex.

Why does Safer Internet Day matter to the insurance and claims sector?

The insurance and claims landscape is increasingly digital, from first notification of loss (FNOL) through to evidence capture, communication and resolution, and while this reliance on digital tools brings clear benefits, it also heightens the importance of secure, transparent and well governed processes.

For context, as fraud techniques have become more sophisticated over the years and data volumes grow as more customer activity shifts to online, the ability to protect information while maintaining efficiency has become a defining factor in service quality.

As such, Safer Internet Day highlights the need for organisations across the sector to continually review how they manage digital risk, collaborate securely and maintain trust with both partners and policyholders, and it also reinforces the importance of working with service providers who understand the sensitivity of the information they handle and the responsibility that comes with supporting customers during critical moments.

How can the principles of Safer Internet Day be successfully embedded?

Safer Internet Day is ultimately about progress rather than perfection, as it encourages organisations to reflect on where they are today, identify areas for improvement and take practical steps towards safer, more resilient digital operations.

What’s more, as digital systems continue to shape how incidents are managed and services are delivered, prioritising online safety will remain a fundamental part of building confidence, protecting relationships and supporting long term success.

If you would like to learn more about how S&G Response supports secure, transparent and customer focused claims outcomes, our team is here to help.

Reach out today.