In a report on the state of the digital economy published today, the OECD warns of the negative effects of technology, such as “cyberbullying” or the improper use of virtual reality (VR). The document highlights that, in the last decade, the technology sector has grown at a rate three times higher than the global economy of the member countries of the organization. In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, the technology sector grew by an average of 6.6% in the OECD, despite the impact of the coronavirus having meant an average economic contraction of 4.8%. And, in 2023, the technology sector grew by an average of 7.6% in the OECD. However, the organization calls on its members to take measures to avoid the negative effects of this strong technological development, starting by ensuring access to the entire population. To this end, it calls on the authorities to provide inclusive and user-centered online services, and also to invest in the development of citizens' digital skills, with specific support for those who "are most at risk of being left behind". The document warns, in particular, about “cyberbullying” and other personal problems arising from the use of technology. The document states that young people who face difficulties in their daily lives due to the use of social networks have increased by 49% since 2017, with girls registering an increase twice that of boys. “'Cyberbullying' is becoming increasingly common among young people, with girls reporting higher rates, on average, than boys. Victimization by 'cyberbullying' grew by 16% between 2017 and 2022,” the document adds. In addition, the OECD warns of the negative impact of the improper use of virtual reality among children or in certain situations, such as in moving vehicles, to ensure the mental and physical safety of users. Also Read: EU wants to clarify 'influencers' about the impact of disinformation (Portuguese version)