Dan Farmer reminds us that “If security were all that mattered, computers would never be turned on, let alone hooked into a network with literally millions of potential intruders.” As the population in the virtual community grows immense, more people are prone to several cyber risks such as bullying, phishing, hacking, data leakage, ransomware, and threats. According to Kemp (2021), between 2020 and 2021, internet users increased by 6.1%, totaling 4.2 million in the Philippines. Moreover, he added that as of January 2021, there are already 89 million social media users, which is equivalent to 80.7% of the entire population. For that reason, there is a need to provide safety and virtuously behave in cyberspace, not to mention that there are already children actively engaging.

Cybersecurity comprises actions and methods in safeguarding our systems, networks, programs, confidential data, and gadgets, such as computers, smartphones, and laptops, from cyberattacks (Kaspersky, 2021). One of the laws and regulations for this matter is the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10175; “Cybercrime Act”), which states that "The State shall adopt sufficient powers to effectively prevent and combat such offenses by facilitating their detection, investigation and prosecution..." People may think that they can get rid of evidence to avoid getting caught in their violation, but it is crucial to be aware of the negative impact on the victims and the punishable acts and penalties they will face. Once we enter the cyber world, we already have the responsibility to use the internet in such ways that are ethical and safe and be respectful to others. 

Now that we have switched to virtual learning and work because of the pandemic, enabling security should be one of our priorities. Technology will continue to grow with the help of numerous research. Hence, by signing this petition, you agree to the following aims to establish safe and ethical cyberspace:

1. Fulfilling digital responsibilities like facilitating courtesy and respectfulness when expressing own thoughts
2. Ignoring messages from strangers or from people we feel uncomfortable with and keeping accounts private.
3. Reporting to people with authority when encountering abuse or violence from a user 
4. Raise awareness about this matter to reduce several cyber risks that can affect the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of a person
5. Limit and control the amount of time spent using the internet 

Like Newton Lee said, "As the world is increasingly interconnected, everyone shares the responsibility of securing cyberspace." Be informed. Be a catalyst of change.

References:

Kaspersky. (2021, August 23). What is Cyber Security? Retrieved from https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/definitions/what-is-cyber-security

Kemp, S. (2021, November 4). Digital in the Philippines: All the Statistics You Need in 2021. DataReportal – Global Digital Insights. Retrieved from https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2021-philippines