hackshield

HackShield is a Dutch social enterprise that develops applied games and educational programs to strengthen the digital resilience of children. Through a unique combination of gamification, storytelling, behavioural science and real-world community activation, HackShield helps young people develop the skills they need to navigate an increasingly complex digital world safely and confidently.

Founded in 2019, HackShield was created in response to the growing gap between the speed of technological development and the digital skills children need to recognize online risks such as cybercrime, manipulation, misinformation, cyberbullying and AI-generated content. Rather than focusing on fear or restriction, HackShield empowers children to become active Cyber Agents who learn how to protect themselves and others.

The platform combines an online game, classroom materials, teacher resources and community engagement initiatives. Children can play individually at home, participate through schools, or engage via partnerships with municipalities, law enforcement agencies, libraries and private sector organizations. This blended approach ensures that learning extends beyond the game itself and translates into real-world behaviour.

Today, HackShield has reached more than 850,000 children across multiple countries and has become one of Europe's leading applied gaming initiatives for digital resilience. With 45% of participants being girls, the platform also contributes to a more diverse future generation of digital citizens and cybersecurity professionals.

HackShield demonstrates how applied games can create measurable educational and societal impact by combining engaging gameplay with evidence-based learning and behavioural change.