SAFER INTERNET DAY 2026: FOCUS ON AI

This year, Safer Internet Day brings a timely and important message: Smart tech, safe choices – exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.

As artificial intelligence becomes part of everyday life, this year’s Safer Internet Day campaign asks all of us to pause and reflect. How do we use powerful technology in a way that is not only innovative, but also safe, fair and responsible?

The UK Safer Internet Centre coordinates the campaign, and its message strongly aligns with the ambitions already taking shape across the Liverpool City Region.

AI for good, and AI done responsibly

Across the city region, AI is being embraced as a tool for positive change. The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has set out a clear vision through its AI for Good strategy: using artificial intelligence to improve public services, boost productivity, support inclusive growth and help people thrive in a fast-changing economy.

On the LCR BeMore platform, we highlighted how AI can support learning, career development, and future readiness in our feature, AI for All. But Safer Internet Day is a reminder that progress and responsibility must go hand in hand. As AI becomes more widely used through chatbots, algorithms, smart devices and generative tools, we need to be just as focused on the way it uses as much as what it can do for us.

What Safer Internet Day means for everyone

One of the strengths of Safer Internet Day is that it speaks to everyone, not just tech experts. Here’s how this year’s theme connects with our different audiences here on LCR BeMore.

For young people, AI tools are increasingly part of learning, creativity and social life. Understanding what AI can and can’t do, how personal data is used, and how to spot misinformation or AI-generated content is becoming a core life skill. 

For parents and carers, the focus is on having open conversations. AI-powered apps, games, and platforms can deliver real benefits, but they also raise questions about privacy, screen time, accuracy, and online behaviour. Safer Internet Day encourages practical, age-appropriate discussions rather than fear or restriction.

For older career changers and adult learners, AI can feel intimidating. Yet many tools are designed to support productivity, learning and accessibility. Knowing how to use them confidently and safely can open up new opportunities, especially when retraining or moving into new sectors.

For employers, responsible AI use is no longer optional. Whether AI is used in recruitment, training, customer service or data analysis, organisations have a duty to be transparent, ethical and people-centred. Building digital confidence among staff is as important as adopting new systems.

Smart tech, safe choices: practical ways to stay safe and responsible

In 2026, Safer Internet Day focuses on helping us use AI responsibly. Key principles highlighted in this year’s resources include:

• Being critical of what you see online, especially content created or influenced by AI
• Understanding how personal data is collected, stored and used
• Knowing when AI tools are appropriate to use, and when human judgment or review is necessary
• Using privacy settings and security tools confidently
• Talking openly about concerns, mistakes or uncertainty around online experiences

You can find practical user-friendly guidance, toolkits, and resources available to download on the Safer Internet Day 2026 website for young people, families, educators, and workplaces. 

Building a digital, inclusive and safe future

The Liverpool City Region is ambitious about technology and innovation. AI has a real role to play in improving lives, creating better jobs and strengthening communities. But trust, safety and responsibility are the foundations that make this progress sustainable.

Safer Internet Day 2026 is an opportunity to celebrate how AI is helping our region, while remaining alert to the risks and challenges it presents. By staying aware of this and making safe and considered choices, we help steer the power of technology in the right direction.

If you’d like to explore practical guidance and resources, visit the Safer Internet Day 2026 page from the UK Safer Internet Centre and take part in the conversation on 10 February and beyond.