MODULE 1 — Introduction to Online Safety
🎥 Welcome to the Online Safety Module!
This module is your exciting first step into understanding how to stay safe online— whether you're gaming, scrolling, studying, shopping, or chatting. The online world is incredible… but it has hidden risks.
When you’re done with this module, you’ll see the online world differently— with sharper instincts, clearer judgement, and higher confidence.
🌐 What Online Safety Actually Means
Online safety isn’t just about “not talking to strangers.” It’s about understanding how the digital world works— and how your behaviour, settings, and awareness keep you protected.
🛡 Your Personal Shield
Online safety is your ability to move confidently through the internet without being tricked, tracked, or exploited.
📱 Smart Digital Habits
Knowing which apps to trust, which links to avoid, and how to recognise suspicious behaviour.
🔍 Awareness & Prevention
Spotting threats early—before they reach you or someone you care about.
👣 Understanding Your Digital Footprint
Every click… every like… every share… leaves a trail. That trail forms your digital footprint.
What is a digital footprint?
Your digital footprint is the permanent record of what you do online—even things you delete.
Why does it matter?
Predators, scammers, bullies, advertisers, and even future employers may use this information.
How do you protect it?
By posting less personal info, using privacy settings, avoiding risky websites, and knowing when and where your data is being collected.
🎭 Why Predators Target Online Users
Online predators don’t look like movie villains. They often seem friendly, funny, helpful, or supportive.
- ✔ They can pretend to be younger.
- ✔ They can create multiple fake accounts.
- ✔ They can contact hundreds of people at once.
- ✔ They look for people who seem lonely, stressed, or looking for friendship.
Awareness = Protection.
💬 How Information Spreads Without Consent
The internet is FAST. One screenshot… one share… one forward… and your private moment can spread to thousands in seconds.
Why screenshots are dangerous
Someone can save your message or photo instantly—even if it disappears in the app.
Private groups are rarely private
People often leak chats, photos, or information from private group chats.
Deleted doesn't mean gone
Apps, servers, and even other people may still have your data.
📚 Real-World Case Studies
Case Study 1 — The “Friendly Follower”
A 14-year-old girl accepted a friend request from someone who shared her hobbies. He slowly asked more personal questions. She later discovered he was a 42-year-old man using photos of a teenager. Blocking early would have protected her.
Case Study 2 — The Group Chat Leak
A private screenshot of an argument was shared outside the chat. Within hours, it spread across the entire school year group. The original sender had no idea it would go everywhere.
Case Study 3 — The “Free Gift Card” Scam
A boy clicked a link offering free gaming credits. It installed malware and accessed his mum’s banking app. This is why links must ALWAYS be checked.
🧠 Quick Check: Online Safety Quiz
Test what you’ve just learned! You’ll get instant feedback after each question, and a summary at the end.
