MediaSmarts Tags - Cyber Security

Identity spoofing is a fairly common problem on social networks. [1] Teens need to know how to make strong passwords and have to be taught not to share their passwords with others.Social networks, and other online environments that encourage users to share information about themselves, can expose teens to identity theft.

Preschoolers (2-5 years)

Preschoolers are one of the fastest-growing groups of computer users, particularly with the arrival of touch-screen devices such as the iPad and iPhone. Recent American research has found that half of five-year-olds go online every day, along with a quarter of three-year-olds. [1] In addition, small children are also the fastest-growing group of video game players. [2]

CIRA and MediaSmarts have partnered on a series of five tip sheets to educate Canadians about online security issues. The 5th tip sheet in the series, Socializing and Interacting Online, looks at negative issues that can come up when interacting with others through networked technologies including phishing scams and hoaxes, and strategies for dealing with them.

Canadian Legislation and Regulation

The Criminal Code

Section 184: Interception of Communications

In the early days of the Internet, some writers predicted that it would bring about a "frictionless economy" – one where shopping for, buying, and even delivering purchases, would happen entirely online. In the years since, the successes of online businesses from eBay to Amazon have made a lot of this image a reality, but online commerce is far from frictionless: scams, frauds, excessive spending and shoddy or misrepresented goods all lie in wait for the unwary buyer.

This tutorial aims to teach students essential digital literacy skills through simulating their favourite online experiences. The tutorial is divided into four chapters, each of which focuses on a particular aspect of digital literacy: researching and authenticating online information, managing privacy and reputation, dealing with online relationships and using digital media in an ethical manner.

In this game, designed for ages 8-10, the CyberPigs play on their favourite website and encounter marketing ploys, spam and a close encounter with a not-too-friendly wolf. 

The purpose of the game is to teach kids how to spot online marketing strategies, protect their personal information and avoid online predators.

However, as kids register with websites to play games, win prizes, engage in chat or join clubs, they may also be compromising their privacy. Here are some of the ways:

Welcome to the Safety Highway!

On the Information Highway, just like in the real world, you've got to know the rules of the road to play safe. Follow our Safety Highway, and watch out for sign posts along the way!