Over 50% Of Students Aged 7 - 16 Received Inappropriate Online Messages

A national survey among Maltese schoolchildren aged seven to 16 has highlighted the ongoing risks young people face online, including death threats, bullying, hateful messages, sexting and requests for intimate photos.

Conducted in 2025 by Misco International and commissioned by the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society (MFWS), the study forms part of the Promoting Online Protection Project (P.O.P-UP) and included 395 students from state, church and independent schools.

The results show that 51% of students reported receiving unwanted or inappropriate online messages. Awareness of online abuse remains high, with 87.3% of children having heard of the term, yet only 41.4% of those who experienced abuse sought help.

The survey also revealed that 32% of students spend four hours or more online daily, and 67% feel comfortable being online alone, a figure rising among older adolescents.

WhatsApp was the most widely used platform (69%), followed by online gaming (61%) and email (just over 50%). Risky behaviours persist, with 21% reporting friendships with unknown people online, 12% sharing passwords, and 10% posting content they later regretted.

Notably, 30% said they did not know where or how to get help if abused online.

MFWS chair Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca said the findings show a paradox: children are more digitally skilled and aware of abuse but remain exposed to risk and often silent.

She emphasised the need for clear guidance and support, including behaviour-focused education in schools, accessible reporting channels and coordinated involvement from parents, educators and digital platforms to reduce harm and ensure children know how to get help.

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