Online Safety and Digital Citizenship

Online Safety

Cyberbullying

• Definition: intentional and repeated harm or harassment towards individuals or groups through digital technologies
• Forms: online harassment, social exclusion, spreading rumors, and posting embarrassing content
• Consequences: emotional distress, social isolation, and decreased self-esteem
• Prevention strategies:
  • Educate children about online etiquette and respect
  • Set clear rules and consequences for online behavior
  • Encourage open communication and reporting incidents

Password Security

• Importance: prevents unauthorized access to personal data and accounts
• Best practices:
  • Use strong, unique passwords for each account
  • Avoid using personal information, common words, or sequences
  • Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords
  • Change passwords regularly (every 60-90 days)

Online Privacy

• Definition: control over personal data and information shared online
• Risks:
  • Data breaches and identity theft
  • Targeted advertising and surveillance
  • Loss of personal autonomy and control
• Protection strategies:
  • Use privacy settings on social media and online platforms
  • Read and understand terms of service and privacy policies
  • Avoid sharing sensitive information online

Phishing Scams

• Definition: fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information through deceptive emails, messages, or websites
• Types:
  • Email phishing: fake emails asking for login credentials or personal data
  • Spear phishing: targeted attacks on individuals or organizations
  • Whaling: targeting high-level executives or officials
• Prevention strategies:
  • Verify sender authenticity and domain names
  • Be cautious of generic greetings, urgent requests, and suspicious links
  • Use anti-phishing software and keep software up-to-date

Digital Footprint

• Definition: the trail of data and information left online through activities and interactions
• Components:
  • Active footprint: intentionally shared information (e.g., social media posts)
  • Passive footprint: unintentionally shared information (e.g., search history, cookies)
• Implications:
  • Permanent online presence
  • Potential for identity theft, cyberbullying, and reputation damage
  • Importance of conscious online behavior and digital literacy

Remember to be mindful of your online actions and take steps to protect yourself and others in the digital world!