Safety on the Internet

• August 1, 2023
• Andrew

Course Name

Safety on the Internet

Training Provider

Melita Training and Resources Management

Target Group / Theme

Maltese Society: Youths, Adults, and the Elderly / Familiarise Youth, Adults, or the Elderly with basic computer security skills when using the internet, social media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, etc.), chatting tools like WhatsApp and Messenger, and the underlying computer safety)

Course dates

Monday 9th October 2023 11:00 – 13:00,
Monday 16th October 2023 11:00 – 13:00,
Monday 23rd October 2023 11:00 – 13:00,
Monday 30th October 2023 11:00 – 13:00,
Monday 6th November 2023 11:00 – 13:00

Sessions

5

Course Content

When familiarizing youth, adults, or the elderly with basic computer security skills for using the internet, social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram), chatting tools like WhatsApp and Messenger, and ensuring computer safety, we intend to cover the following points:

1. Strong and Unique Passwords:
– Emphasize the importance of using strong and unique passwords for all online accounts.
– Teach learners how to create passwords using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
– Encourage them to use different passwords for different accounts and to update passwords periodically.

2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
– Explain the concept of two-factor authentication and its role in enhancing account security.
– Encourage learners to enable 2FA whenever possible, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification method, such as a code sent to a mobile device.

3. Phishing Awareness:
– Educate learners about phishing attempts and how to recognize and avoid them.
– Teach them to be cautious of suspicious emails, messages, or links that may lead to fake websites designed to steal personal information.
– Encourage learners to verify the legitimacy of websites before providing any sensitive information.

4. Safe Browsing:
– Teach safe browsing practices, such as being cautious of clicking on unknown or suspicious links.
– Encourage learners to look for secure website connections (https://) and to avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.
– Promote the use of reputable web browsers and the regular updating of browser software.

5. Social Media Privacy Settings:
– Guide learners on how to adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to control the visibility of their personal information and posts.
– Explain the importance of reviewing and managing friend or connection requests, ensuring they are from trusted individuals.

6. Social Media Content Sharing:
– Educate learners about the potential risks of sharing personal information or sensitive content on social media.
– Encourage them to think before posting and to consider the potential consequences of sharing information publicly.
– Advise learners to be mindful of what they share and with whom, keeping in mind the permanence and potential reach of shared content.

7. Secure Chatting and Messaging:
– Discuss the importance of using secure messaging platforms and end-to-end encryption.
– Teach learners about the features of secure messaging apps like WhatsApp or Messenger that protect the privacy and security of their conversations.
– Encourage them to be cautious when sharing personal or sensitive information through chat platforms.

8. Antivirus and Firewall:
– Explain the importance of installing and regularly updating reliable antivirus software on computers and mobile devices.
– Teach learners about the role of firewalls in protecting against unauthorized access to their devices.
– Encourage them to keep their antivirus software and operating systems up to date.

9. Regular Software Updates:
– Highlight the importance of regularly updating software, including operating systems, web browsers, and applications.
– Explain that software updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

10. Backing Up Data:
– Teach learners the importance of regularly backing up their important data, such as documents, photos, and videos.
– Explain the different backup options available, such as using external hard drives, cloud storage services, or backup software.

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– Promote overall cybersecurity awareness by discussing common online threats, such as malware, ransomware, and identity theft.
– Educate learners about safe practices like avoiding suspicious downloads, being cautious with email attachments, and being mindful of social engineering techniques.

12. Reporting and Seeking Help:
– Inform learners about reporting mechanisms available on social media platforms, chat apps, or websites to report abusive behavior, scams, or security incidents.
– Provide resources and contact information for seeking help or reporting cybercrimes to the appropriate authorities.

Encourage learners to be proactive in implementing these security practices, stay informed about emerging threats, and develop a cautious and critical mindset while using online platforms. Regularly remind them to update their knowledge as security practices evolve.

Delivery Method

Hybrid

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