In commemoration of Safer Internet Day 2026, ipNX Retail Division hosted an interactive webinar focused on equipping Small and Medium-Sized Business (SMB) owners, remote workers, young adults, IT professionals, and senior citizens with expert-driven insights on the advent of Artificial Intelligence in transforming digital experiences and how to use it safely, and responsibly in safeguarding their online activities.
Themed “Smart Tech, Safe Choices – Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI,” the webinar featured industry experts; Dr. Samuel Mbonu, a cybersecurity expert with over 18 years of experience across Cybersecurity, IT Architecture & Governance, Predictive Analytics, Digital Forensics, and IT Auditing, and Najite Ikutegbe, Divisional CEO, ipNX Managed Network Services, a technology expert with over 15 years of experience in the telecommunications sector, as the keynote speakers. The session was moderated by Akintunde Taiwo, Head of Retail Sales at ipNX.
As AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life and business operations, the webinar explored both the opportunities and risks associated with emerging technologies. Participants gained insights into how AI can enhance productivity, accelerate career growth, and support business innovation, while also understanding the importance of safeguarding personal and organizational data.
While speaking on the significant opportunities Artificial intelligence presents, Dr Mbonu highlighted the evolving threat landscape, noting that AI-enabled cyber risks such as identity theft, deepfakes, and data manipulation are becoming more sophisticated.
“Identity theft, deepfakes, and data manipulation are rising rapidly. These threats have surged by over 900% in the last two years because bad actors are now leveraging AI to launch attacks. In fact, more than 60% of organizations have reported encountering AI-assisted cyberattacks. Individuals and organizations must therefore be intentional about the information they share and adopt protective measures to safeguard their digital identities.” He further stressed that security must no longer be an afterthought, it should be embedded into the design and use of technology from the very beginning.
Najite Ikutegbe Divisional CEO, ipNX Managed Network Services, highlighted the strategic importance of balancing innovation with security.
“Artificial Intelligence is a great driver of efficiency and growth whether for value creators or business entrepreneurs. There are tremendous economic opportunities in leveraging AI for career and business growth. However, responsible adoption requires strong digital hygiene, from data protection practices to system updates and access controls. Organizations and individuals must be intentional about the information they share and embed security into how technology is designed and used,” he said.
Reinforcing ipNX’s broader commitment to digital responsibility, Akintunde Taiwo stated: “At ipNX, we understand that as technology evolves, so does our responsibility to ensure that our customers are equipped to use it wisely. Through initiatives like this webinar, we go beyond connectivity by empowering individuals and businesses with the awareness and confidence to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world, without compromising their safety or security.”
During the webinar, participants were introduced to practical safety measures, including being mindful of sensitive information shared with AI tools, recognizing and avoiding AI-driven scams and manipulation tactics, strengthening password practices, and enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for an added layer of protection. They were also encouraged to commit to responsible digital practices and champion online safety within their communities. As part of the initiative, participants received a 5-Step Smart Tech Safety Checklist and a Certificate of Attendance to support continued learning and responsible digital engagement.
Now in its third edition, the annual Safer Internet Day webinar remains a key annual initiative of the ipNX Retail Division, reflecting the company’s commitment to strengthening digital awareness among residential users and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By promoting informed, ethical, and secure technology use, ipNX continues to play an active role in building a safer digital ecosystem for its customers and the broader community.
