A news conference took place at Cyberdom to announce the launch of the national digital literacy assessment, the Digital Dictation, organized by the Russian Association of Electronic Communications (RAEC). This year, the Digital Dictation will take place on October 10-28.
This annual campaign is designed to assess digital literacy among children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. The Coordination Center for TLD .RU/.РФ is a longtime partner of the event. Coordination Center Director Alexei Vorobyev participated in the news conference. He emphasized the importance of enhancing digital literacy and digital hygiene skills against the backdrop of the ongoing digital transition.
“Online users face numerous threats, from cyberattacks to data leaks. Knowing how to use digital tools effectively is crucial for staying secure online. Developing digital hygiene skills not only protects data but also fosters a sense of overall security in the digital space. Relying on homegrown digital services and platforms can provide greater security and transparency to Russian users; more than that, our domestic services may be more convenient and familiar. The Coordination Center is committed to promoting digital literacy for users of all ages. As part of this effort, we are launching a new major project, the Coordination Center Academy, in early October, on Teacher’s Day,” Andrei Vorobyev added.
RAEC Director and founder of the Digital Dictation initiative, Sergei Grebennikov, outlined the main focus areas of the campaign’s 5th season:
“The Digital Dictation offers a unique opportunity for Runet users to assess their digital knowledge. Already in its fifth year, the campaign brings together entire generations as children, parents and grandparents join the event. As we enter the fifth season in 2024, RAEC and key representatives of the Russian digital community are making another step towards a safe digital future for all users without exception. It is for this purpose that the dictation website has been adapted to the needs of people with disabilities this year. We continually update the campaign format to stay relevant. For example, this time, participants can test their ability to use digital financial services through a new block of questions on financial cyberliteracy.”
Sergei Grebennikov also highlighted the importance of teaching digital skills from a young age. Last year, the digital literacy index among children aged 10 to13 was 6.24 out of 10, and 6.06 among children under 10 years old. These are among the lowest scores across all age groups participating in the campaign.
Anton Gorelkin, Deputy Chair of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Information Technology and Communications, discussed the priority objectives of the Digital Dictation:
“The Regional Public Center of Internet Technology (ROCIT) is proud to co-organize the Digital Dictation campaign and contribute to addressing digital illiteracy in Russia. I can say without reservation that this event is not just about points; it has a significant national impact. Our ultimate goal is not only to impart digital knowledge but also to foster critical thinking, enabling our citizens to resist cyberthreats."
The Digital Dictation assessment is considered the largest digital literacy test. Last year, the campaign was held in all regions of Russia, with over 150 offline venues hosting both the dictation and educational events. This year, the campaign will expand even further, covering the entire country from Kaliningrad to Vladivostok.
In 2023, Moscow residents underwent their first digital literacy assessment, with additional questions about the capital’s digital services. Moscow and the Republic of Karelia shared the first place last season, both scoring 7.34 out of 10 in digital literacy.
While the digital world offers numerous opportunities, it also poses risks such as cybercrime, scams, and data leaks. Lack of knowledge about digital services can lead users to fall victim to scams and sophisticated online traps. Collaborative efforts by businesses, the state, and society are essential to combating cybercriminals and protecting Runet users.
Sergei Plugotarenko, Director General of Digital Economy autonomous non-profit organization, presented his organization as the campaign’s partner this year for carrying out the assessment and analyzing results.
“This year, the founders chose Digital Economy to be the analytical partner of the event. In addition to testing the founders’ employees, we plan to analyze the level of digital literacy among public sector employees in the regions. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, cybercrime damages in 2024 have exceeded 116 billion rubles in Russia, with the number of offenses doubling over the past five years. This includes all crimes committed using IT tools such as mobile communications, bank cards and fraudulent electronic payments. I am certain that the Digital Dictation can serve as a valuable training exercise for all users, regardless of their professional background,” Sergei Plugotarenko pointed out.
Follow the news of the Digital Dictation on the official website, on VK and ОК.
