A Safer Internet Day 2026 webinar on AI, online safety, and making smart digital choices for children, families, and communities.
Speaker
Aravind Jalajan
Agenda
4:00pm - Introduction of Speaker
4:05pm - Speaker Session
4:45pm - Questions and answers
5:00pm - Event Closes
Synopsis
This Safer Internet Day 2026 webinar, hosted by BCS and open to members and the wider public, explores the safe and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in everyday digital life.
AI is now embedded in many tools and platforms we use daily, including social media, search engines, education technologies, smart devices, and creative applications. While these technologies offer significant benefits, they also raise important questions around safety, privacy, trust, and responsibility - particularly for children, young people, and families.
Delivered as part of Safer Internet Day 2026, this accessible and non-technical session will help attendees understand what AI is, where it appears in everyday life, and how to make informed, safe choices when using AI-powered technologies. The webinar is designed for a broad audience, including IT professionals, parents, carers, grandparents, educators, young people, and anyone interested in navigating the digital world more confidently.
During the session, attendees will:
- Gain a clear understanding of AI and its everyday applications.
- Explore positive, practical, and responsible uses of AI.
- Learn about key risks such as misinformation, deepfakes, and data privacy concerns.
- Understand how children and young people interact with AI online.
- Receive simple, practical steps to help protect themselves and others.
- Be signposted to trusted resources for further learning and support.
The webinar will include real-world examples, live demonstrations, and practical guidance to support informed conversations about AI at home, in education, and in the workplace.
This event supports the Safer Internet Day 2026 theme: “Smart tech, safe choices – exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.”
By attending, participants will leave better informed, more confident, and empowered to engage with AI responsibly, supporting safer digital experiences for themselves and their communities.
About the speaker
Aravind Jalajan is a passionate cybersecurity professional and community leader currently pursuing his MSc in Cybersecurity at the University of Hertfordshire.
With a background in Computer Science and multiple years of leadership experience, Aravind has served as Chair of the BCS Hertfordshire Branch and led his university's Computer Science Society to win “Best Academic Society” in 2024.
He has represented his university at national conferences such as GSE UK, where he explored cybersecurity, AI, and mainframe innovation. As a School Community Organiser and Director of the SPECS Alliance, Aravind advocates for student empowerment, diversity, and sustainable development in tech education.
Known for combining technical insight with inclusive leadership, he speaks on topics ranging from cybersecurity innovation and responsible AI to student development and community-driven change.
Our events are for adults aged 16 years and over.
This meeting is conducted in accordance with the BCS Code of Conduct for Meetings.
BCS is a membership organisation. If you enjoy this event, please consider joining BCS. You’ll be very welcome. You’ll receive access to many exclusive career development tools, an introduction to a thriving professional community and also help us Make IT Good For Society. Join BCS today
Please note: if you have any accessibility needs, please let us know via groups@bcs.uk, and we’ll work with you to make suitable arrangements.
For overseas delegates who wish to attend the event, please note that BCS does not issue invitation letters.
This event is brought to you by: Hertfordshire branch
