Online Safety

Throughout your life, you will read articles, news, and carry out general research online. Some information online may be wrong, biased, or even manipulated to spread lies and change people's opinions. It is important to consider where the information comes from, as some sources are more trustworthy than others.

There are three types of damaging information we need to be aware of:

Disinformation

This is false information that is deliberately shared or spread by those who know it’s wrong.
Example: A fake news website intentionally spreads false claims that a political candidate has committed a crime to influence voters.

Misinformation

This is false information shared or spread by those who believe it to be true.
Example: A social media user shares a viral post claiming a certain food can cure an illness, not realizing the information is scientifically inaccurate.

Malinformation

This is information that is based on truth but exaggerated or presented in a way that can cause harm.
Example: A news outlet reports on a celebrity's private life, distorting the facts in a way that invades their privacy and damages their reputation.

Tips for checking online information

• Check a range of different sources. You may find different perspectives or additional information that supports or contradicts the original source.
• Avoid sources that use overly emotive language. These sources may be trying to elicit an emotional response rather than present facts.
• Consider the motive of your source. Are they known for being biased? Are they trying to sell you something?
• Be wary of clickbait headlines. Headlines that sound sensational or too good to be true often misrepresent the content of the article.
• Look at the publication date. Outdated information may no longer be accurate, especially for rapidly changing topics like health or technology.
• Check the author's credentials. Is the author an expert in the subject area? If their qualifications or experience are unclear, the information may be less reliable.

KS3 Computing

Social media is a website or application that allows users to communicate by posting, commenting, or sharing digital media. This includes platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook.

Age Restrictions on social media

Many social media applications and websites have age restrictions. This means you must be a certain age to sign up and use their services.

• Inappropriate content
  Some social media platforms may have content that is not suitable for younger users. Age restrictions help protect young people from exposure to harmful or inappropriate material.

• Data privacy laws
  There are legal restrictions on data collection for those under the age of 13. 

Sharing data on social media

A lot of people share personal data on social media, including videos, photos, text posts, stories, and messages. However, it’s important to be aware that:

• The data you post online may be used to tailor ads specifically to you based on your online activity.

• Your activity across the internet can be tracked by companies and organizations to gather information about you.

• Posts you make today could be used against you in the future, such as by potential employers or universities reviewing your social media history.

We should all work to reduce the size of our digital footprint to avoid these unintended consequences.

Social media addiction

Another issue surrounding social media is addiction. Social media platforms are designed to keep you engaged for as long as possible. Constant notifications, likes, and comments can create a dopamine-driven cycle that encourages users to spend excessive time on these platforms.

Signs of social media addiction:

• Checking social media first thing in the morning and last thing at night.
• Feeling anxious or restless when you can’t access social media.
• Spending more time on social media than with friends or on hobbies.

Social Media Top Tips

• Use privacy features to limit who can see your content. Adjust your account settings to control who can view your posts and personal information.
• Take breaks from social media, or set time limits to reduce your usage. Regular breaks help maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
• Think before you post. Always consider whether the content you’re sharing could have negative consequences for yourself or others.
• Avoid oversharing personal details. Limit the amount of personal information you post, such as your location, full name, or contact details.
• Be cautious when accepting friend or follower requests. Not everyone online is who they claim to be, so only connect with people you know and trust.
• Turn off notifications. Disable unnecessary alerts to reduce distractions and prevent constant checking of your phone.
• Report and block harmful content. If you encounter inappropriate or harmful behavior, use the platform's reporting tools to flag it and protect yourself.

KS3 Computing

Digital Footprint refers to any videos, photos, posts, or other content created by or about you that is posted on the internet and can potentially harm your reputation. This content, whether intentional or not, can lead to serious consequences, affecting your personal and professional life. Employers, universities, and even friends or family may search for "digital dirt" as part of background checks.

What you share online today can come back to haunt you in the future. More and more people are losing jobs or not getting hired because of inappropriate content they've posted online, sometimes even years ago.

The Impact of "Digital Dirt"

• Personal Reputation
  Posts or comments made in the heat of the moment, like offensive jokes or arguments, can damage your reputation and relationships.

• Employment
  Many employers search for online content before offering interviews. Inappropriate content may result in not getting a job or even losing one.

• Legal Consequences
  Certain posts can lead to legal troubles, such as sharing harmful misinformation, hate speech, or violating someone’s privacy.

Tips for Managing Your Digital Footprint

• Think before you post. Consider whether what you’re sharing could have long-term consequences. Could this be embarrassing or damaging in the future?
• Review your privacy settings. Limit who can see your content by adjusting your privacy settings on social media platforms.
• Regularly clean up your accounts. Remove old or inappropriate posts that could reflect poorly on you.
• Be cautious with what you share publicly. Even if you think something is private, it can often be screenshotted or shared without your knowledge.
• Avoid posting when emotional. If you’re angry or upset, take a step back before posting something you might regret.
• Use professional social media profiles. Keep a clear boundary between personal and professional online personas.

KS3 Computing