Bearing the changes in the media landscape, the evolving media consumption patterns and the rapid advancement of technology in mind, the NMHH pays special attention to protecting children and promoting their safe online presence and informed use of digital devices.
Digital child protection activities stretch beyond the scope of its regulatory functions in the traditional sense: the Authority also seeks to engage in an educational, preventive way in promoting children’s media awareness and effectively preserving the digital safety of children and families.
These activities, in serving the public interest, are carried out with a view to raising awareness of the risks associated with the use of digital devices and various media services, to preventing and mitigating harmful effects, and to informing the relevant actors of society about the opportunities offered by the conscious and responsible use of the digital space.
The NMHH intends not only to act as a public authority but also wishes to enable broad cooperation among all social actors, focusing on the best interests of children.
In the context of its public interest mission, it organises programmes and information campaigns to help children, parents and educators tackle online abuse, fraud and infringements, and to support relevant target groups in addressing the digital challenges faced by families.
As part of this, several child protection campaigns have been executed in recent years to promote digital safety and awareness, such as “Don’t be afraid to ask for help!” or “Notice the red flags, dare to say no!”, which stress prevention, recognition and the importance of asking for help, and advise families on digital safety, online fraud, as well as conscious media use and consumption.
The Authority also produces and continuously updates comprehensive educational publications on key issues affecting children’s digital habits, online presence and media use, providing practical advice for children, parents and teachers.
Also, videos and podcasts – including a series of child protection podcasts, “Tips for a more screen-free childhood”, and videos on how to set parental controls and stay safe online – support the building of media awareness and safe media use.
The NMHH’s child protection activities are governed by laws that define and underpin its digital child protection responsibilities. This is complemented by regular research, which focuses on media consumption, media literacy and media awareness among children aged 3 to 16 and their parents, contributing to an informed professional and social dialogue.