The Digital Services Act: What Parents and Educators in Malta Need to Know

How BeSmartOnline! Supports Safer Online Experiences as a Trusted Flagger

Digital technologies are now an integral part of our children’s daily lives. Young people use online platforms to learn, communicate, and relax, but these same spaces can also expose them to harmful or illegal content, grooming behaviours, hate speech, and other online risks. These challenges place increasing pressure on parents, guardians and educators to safeguard children in complex digital environments. 

This is why the new EU Digital Services Act (DSA) is important. The DSA is an EU-wide legislative framework designed to strengthen safety, transparency, and accountability across online platforms. 

What the Digital Services Act Introduces 

The DSA applies to a wide range of online services, including major social media platforms and online marketplaces. Its aim is to create safer digital spaces while protecting users’ fundamental rights. 

For families and educational settings, several key changes are especially important. 

Online platforms are required to provide clearer and more accessible reporting mechanisms for illegal content. Users should receive understandable explanations about decisions taken following reports, with the possibility to challenge certain outcomes. 

The DSA also places a stronger emphasis on the protection of minors. The European Commission has issued specific guidance for platforms on mitigating risks to children and young people, reinforcing the need for child-centred safety measures. 

In addition, the DSA introduces restrictions on targeted advertising to minors, particularly where profiling is used. These measures are intended to reduce exploitative or inappropriate commercial practices affecting children online.

BeSmartOnline!’s Role as a Trusted Flagger

BeSmartOnline!, coordinated by the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), has been formally appointed as a Trusted Flagger under the Digital Services Act by the Malta Communications Authority (MCA), Malta’s designated Digital Services Coordinator. 

Trusted Flaggers are recognised expert organisations who demonstrated competence in identifying illegal online content. Under the DSA, online platforms are required to give priority consideration to reports submitted by Trusted Flaggers, as these reports are expected to be accurate, well-founded, and submitted in the public interest. 

In practical terms, when BeSmartOnline! submits a notice through Trusted Flagger channels, platforms are obliged to assess and act on the report faster and with greater attention. 

Guidance for Parents and Educators 

Parents and educators play a critical role in identifying concerns early. When encountering content that may be illegal or pose a risk to a child, several steps can be taken. 

In-platform reporting tools should be used wherever possible, as these create an internal record with the service provider. Relevant information, such as links, usernames, screenshots, and timestamps, should be preserved securely. Where there is an indication that a child may be at immediate risk, existing safeguarding procedures should be followed without delay.

Ongoing communication with children and young people is equally important. A trusted adult who listens calmly and responds supportively remains one of the strongest protective factors against online harm. 

Why the Digital Services Act Matters Now 

The DSA is no longer a theoretical framework. Enforcement measures are actively being implemented across the EU, and online platforms are being held accountable for non-compliance, including failures related to transparency and user protection.

While legislation alone cannot eliminate online risks, it represents a significant shift in expectations. Platforms are now subject to clearer obligations and stronger oversight, particularly in relation to child safety. 

BeSmartOnline!: Education, Support, and Action 

BeSmartOnline! works closely with schools, families, and communities to promote safer and healthier online practices. Its role as a Trusted Flagger strengthens this work by enabling faster reporting and prioritised handling of illegal content, alongside continued education and support initiatives. 

Parents, caregivers, and educators are not expected to manage online risks alone.

By understanding available reporting tools, maintaining open dialogue with young people, and seeking guidance when concerns arise, safeguarding becomes a shared and more effective effort. While the digital world is complex, protecting children within it should not be. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need to talk, you can call Supportline 179 for free, confidential support at any time. 

For more tips and resources, visit www.besmartonline.info 

Written by:  

Andrelisa Vella Chircop: Safer Internet Centre Officer and Helpline Officer