TELECOMMUNICATIONS provider C&W Communications, the operators of Flow, has joined the global community in marking today as Safer Internet Day under the theme ‘Too Good to Be True? Protecting Yourself and Others from Scams Online’.

Safer Internet Day is an international initiative promoting a safer, more responsible, and inclusive digital world, and this year’s theme highlights the importance of staying vigilant and proactive against the growing threat of cyber scams.

Flow has noted that with a 43 per cent increase in cyberattacks across the Caribbean and Latin America since 2021, protecting against cybercrimes has never been more critical. Research indicates that one in 23 organisations in the region is impacted by cyber threats weekly.

“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. As the Caribbean’s leading telecommunications provider, we are committed to informing, advising, and educating stakeholders about online safety,” said Inge Smidts, chief executive officer, C&W Communications.

She pointed out that globally, 71.1 million people on average fall victim to cybercrimes each year with the top five types of cybercrime being extortion, identity theft, personal data breach, non-payment for products and services, and phishing attacks.

“As a key enabler of digital transformation across the region, C&W Communications is committed to equipping its customers, employees, and communities with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the Internet safely.”

In partnership with parent company Liberty Latin America (LLA), C&W Communications has launched several initiatives to mark Safer Internet Day with a range of education and awareness campaigns designed to reach the youngest and oldest Internet users.

The company has also partnered with schools and community groups to deliver sessions focused on recognising online scams, securing personal information, and promoting digital literacy.

“As a leading connectivity provider in the region, it is our responsibility to help make the Internet and digital technologies safer for everyone. That’s why, every year on Safer Internet Day, we take a moment to reflect on our efforts to keep our communities safe,” said Felipe Ruiz, vice-president of information security, and Ciso, Liberty Latin America.

In the meantime, Stephen Price, vice-president and general manager, Flow Jamaica, is urging digitally savvy Jamaicans to play an active role in safeguarding the nation’s most vulnerable individuals online.

According to Price, as digital access continues to expand, those who are more knowledgeable about online risks are well-positioned to assist children, senior citizens, and other at-risk individuals in navigating the Internet safely.

Price said online vigilance must be an individual and collective effort that evolves with the technology.

“The nature of the Internet is so dynamic that the job of protecting our citizens requires constant supervision and oversight in order to prevent what can be life-threatening mishaps.

“Cyber criminals are not just distant, faceless figures operating from overseas; they are right here in Jamaica, and they have become highly skilled at using digital platforms to target unsuspecting victims,” Price warned.

“From scammers who manipulate banking customers into revealing sensitive financial information, to predators who lure children away from their families via social media, and even cyberbullies spreading harmful content, online threats are diverse and ever-present.

“We all can play a role by providing daily guidance, educating and overseeing our children and those still in need of guidance. Check those devices, talk with them about how to stay safe online and, of course, encourage them to report issues when they do occur. Education and oversight are key to fostering a secure digital environment,” added Price.

Reaffirming Flow’s commitment to cyber-safety, Price highlighted the importance of initiatives like Safer Internet Day 2025.

“At Flow, we are committed to creating a safer digital environment for all Jamaicans. Internationally observed initiatives such as Safer Internet Day 2025 are opportunities for us to reinforce the importance of Internet safety and empower our community with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves online. Together, we can build a safer, more secure digital Jamaica,” said Price.