MOHAMED AL BATTASHI
MUSCAT: As part of its cultural activity plan, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Library organised an awareness lecture titled 'Cyber Blackmail' on Wednesday.
The event was held under the Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre for Culture and Science and targeted female students from schools. Several teachers and educational supervisors also attended the session.
The lecture was presented by Ammar bin Yasser al Dawoodi, an internationally certified trainer, who discussed key concepts related to the growing risks of cyber blackmail and online harassment. He explained that the goal of the session was to help students understand what cyber blackmail means, its different forms and how to protect themselves online.
“It’s important for students to realise that sharing personal photos or private information can easily become a tool for blackmail,” he said. “Prevention starts with awareness and responsible online behaviour.” He outlined the main types of cyber blackmail, including image-based and verbal threats, highlighting that such acts often target teenagers through social media.
He also discussed the psychological, social, educational and family impacts of online blackmail, noting that it can lead to anxiety, isolation and declining academic performance if not addressed early.
“Our goal through these workshops is not only to raise awareness, but also to build a generation that knows how to protect itself and make the right digital choices,” Al Dawoodi said.
During the interactive session, participants took part in practical exercises designed to reinforce the lessons learned and strengthen their digital safety skills.
The event is part of the library’s ongoing efforts to promote digital literacy and safe online practices, supporting the creation of a secure and responsible digital environment for students and the wider community.
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