Exciting News: We’ve Been Appointed as a Trusted Flagger by the Malta Communications Authority!
- BeSmartOnline
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 1
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with our community: The Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), through its BeSmartOnline! project—which runs Malta’s national Safer Internet Centre, Helpline, and Hotline—has been officially appointed as a Trusted Flagger by the Malta Communications Authority (MCA), Malta’s Digital Services Coordinator. This is a significant milestone for us, and we’re honored to take on this important role in making the internet a safer place for everyone.
What Does Being a Trusted Flagger Mean?
As a Trusted Flagger, we’ve been recognized by the MCA for our expertise and commitment to online safety. This role allows us to work more closely with online platforms and authorities to identify and report illegal or harmful content quickly and effectively. Trusted Flaggers are given priority when reporting content, which means faster action can be taken to remove harmful material from the internet.
This initiative is part of the broader framework of the Digital Services Act (DSA), a landmark EU regulation designed to create a safer and more accountable digital environment. The DSA sets clear rules for online platforms to combat illegal content, protect users’ rights, and ensure transparency in how content is moderated. As a Trusted Flagger, we’re proud to contribute to these efforts by helping to enforce the DSA’s goals in Malta and beyond.
How Will This Help Make the Internet Safer?
One of the biggest challenges in tackling illegal content online is the time it takes to report and remove it. With our new role as a Trusted Flagger, we’ll be able to:
Speed up the reporting process: Our reports will be prioritized, meaning illegal content can be flagged and removed more quickly than ever before.
Protect vulnerable users: By acting swiftly, we can help prevent the spread of harmful material, such as hate speech, child exploitation, and scams, which often target young people and other vulnerable groups.
Raise awareness: As part of our role, we’ll continue to educate the public about online risks and how to stay safe, empowering everyone to be part of the solution.
What Kind of Content Will We Be Reporting?
As a Trusted Flagger, we’ll focus on identifying and reporting content that violates Maltese and EU laws, including:
Child exploitation material
Hate speech and incitement to violence
Cyberbullying and harassment
Fraud and scams
Terrorist propaganda
Other illegal or harmful content
How Can You Help?
While our role as a Trusted Flagger gives us new tools to act quickly, we still need your help to make the internet safer. Here’s how you can contribute:
Report illegal content: If you come across something that seems illegal or harmful, let us know through our Hotline, Helpline, or by calling 179. Your reports can make a difference.
Stay informed: Follow us on Facebook @saferinternet.mt and share our resources to help others learn about online safety.
Be proactive: Adjust your privacy settings, think before you share, and encourage others to do the same.
A Big Thank You to Our Community
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our community. Your trust and engagement have been instrumental in our journey to promote online safety. Together, we can continue to make the internet a safer, more positive space for everyone.
If you have any questions about our new role or want to learn more about how you can stay safe online, feel free to reach out to us through the BeSmartOnline Helpline, call 179, or connect with us on Facebook @saferinternet.mt. Let’s work together to create a better digital world!
For more updates and tips, visit BeSmartOnline.info.
Stay safe, stay smart, and thank you for being part of our mission!
For more information:
Trusted Flagger Status: Learn more about the decision by the Malta Communications Authority (MCA) to appoint the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS) as a Trusted Flagger under Article 22 of the Digital Services Act. This recognition highlights our expertise in protecting minors and addressing violations related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM). https://www.mca.org.mt/decision-dsa-trusted-flagger-fsws
Digital Services Act (DSA): Explore the broader framework of the Digital Services Act, which aims to create a safer and more transparent online environment across Europe. It sets out obligations for platforms and introduces mechanisms like Trusted Flaggers to ensure compliance.
Better Internet for Kids (BIK+) Strategy: Discover how the EU's strategy for a better internet for kids aligns with our mission. The BIK+ initiative focuses on safe digital experiences, digital empowerment, and active participation to protect and empower children online.
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