Digital Safety for Rural Communities: A Timely Call to Action

In today’s digital world, technology has transformed how we live, work, and connect. From mobile banking to social media, people everywhere are reaping the benefits of a more connected world. The internet has truly made the world a global village. But as technology advances, so do the risks that come with it. One growing and alarming issue is Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV), a new form of violence that thrives in digital spaces.

OGBV doesn’t discriminate. It cuts across social class, gender, and geography. However, rural communities and vulnerable groups are often more at risk. Why? Because they are less likely to have access to digital security training and the tools to protect themselves online, and that’s a problem we can no longer ignore.

Rural Communities: The Silent Victims of Cyber Insecurity

While urban areas have seen an increase in digital literacy programs and online safety initiatives, rural communities are frequently left behind. Many people living in these areas are coming online for the first time, often without any guidance on how to navigate the internet safely. The risks they face, from scams and data theft to cyberbullying and OGBV are very real.

Our ongoing research on ICT and internet penetration and access in Northern Uganda tells a sobering story. A significant number of respondents reveal they have never received any training on digital security or online safety. Many admit that they are unaware of the dangers lurking online or how to protect themselves from cyber threats.

This lack of knowledge and support makes rural users easy targets for cybercriminals and online abusers. And when it comes to women and girls in these communities, the risks are even greater. They often experience targeted harassment, online stalking, and exploitation, forms of OGBV that can have devastating consequences on their mental health, safety, and participation in digital spaces.

Bridging the Gap: Digital Inclusion Isn’t Just About Access

We talk a lot about bridging the digital divide, but access to the internet is just one piece of the puzzle. True digital inclusion means ensuring people have both access and the knowledge to use technology safely and confidently.

Focusing training programs only in urban areas widens the gap, leaving rural users even more exposed. It’s time to change that.

Why Prioritizing Rural Communities Matters

• Rural communities are increasingly getting online, especially as mobile internet becomes more accessible. But they’re stepping into the digital world without the armor they need to stay safe.
• Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated. Without proper education on digital hygiene, rural users remain vulnerable to attacks, scams, and OGBV.
• Empowering rural communities with digital security knowledge fosters trust and participation. When people feel safe online, they are more likely to take advantage of digital tools for education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.

A Call to Action for Stakeholders

As governments, civil society organizations, and tech companies work to promote digital inclusion, there must be an intentional effort to extend digital security and online safety training to rural areas. These trainings should be tailored to the realities of rural life, considering language barriers, literacy levels, and cultural sensitivities.

We need community-based programs that engage local leaders and influencers, making digital safety a shared responsibility. Women and girls, in particular, should be at the center of these efforts, as they are often disproportionately affected by online abuse.

Conclusion: Digital Safety is a Right, Not a Privilege

Everyone deserves to be safe online. Digital security and online safety training shouldn’t be a privilege reserved for urban populations. It’s a basic right that must be extended to all communities, especially those in rural areas who are most vulnerable.

As we work towards a more inclusive digital world, let’s ensure no one is left behind. Prioritizing digital security training for rural communities is not just the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do.

Link: Our ongoing research project summary: https://globaltechinc.org/project-summaries/research-project-on-ict-and-internet-penetration-and-access-in-northern-uganda