HackShield wins European digital skills award 2026
HackShield Future Cyber Heroes has been awarded the European Digital Skills Award 2026 in the Cybersecurity Skills category for its innovative approach to teaching children digital resilience. The educational platform, which has already reached more than 800,000 children worldwide, was recogniz...
HackShield Future Cyber Heroes has been awarded the European Digital Skills Award 2026 in the Cybersecurity Skills category for its innovative approach to teaching children digital resilience. The educational platform, which has already reached more than 800,000 children worldwide, was recognized for helping young people navigate the digital world safely and become positive role models in their communities. The award underscores the growing importance of equipping younger generations with the skills needed to protect themselves online.
Teaching digital resilience from an early age
Children today grow up in a world where being online is part of everyday life. They play games, communicate with friends, learn and explore digital spaces. Yet they are also exposed to risks such as online manipulation, cybercrime, misinformation and privacy threats. While cybersecurity education has traditionally focused on adults, HackShield addresses this gap by giving children aged 7 to 12 the tools they need to recognize risks and make informed decisions.
Through an interactive game and classroom activities, children become Junior Cyber Agents, learning how to protect themselves and others in the digital world. The program is designed without commercial interests, ensuring no data is sold and no marketing is directed at children, and is freely accessible to schools, libraries and families.
A milestone in a larger mission
The European Digital Skills Awards celebrate initiatives that strengthen digital competencies across Europe. By selecting HackShield, the jury acknowledged the importance of preparing younger generations for the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly digital society.
"This award demonstrates the importance of investing in digital resilience from an early age," said Emily Jacometti, founder of HackShield. "Children are growing up in an increasingly complex digital society. By giving them the knowledge, confidence and skills to navigate that world safely, we can help build a stronger and more resilient future for everyone."
HackShield operates in collaboration with municipalities, schools, law enforcement agencies and private partners across multiple countries. The organization aims to activate 10,000,001 heroes by 2030, helping to create a generation equipped to handle the digital age with confidence and responsibility.
