Resources for Parents - Cyber Security

Cyber Security Consumer Tip Sheet

Most of what we do online falls into one of three categories: Talk, Shop and Play. There are risks associated with all these activities that consumers need to be aware of so they can take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their computers.

The Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA), in partnership with MediaSmarts wants to make sure you stay safe online. We have developed the following list of potential risks you may encounter during your online experience and suggested tools that may assist in lowering the level of risk.

Cyber Security Consumer Tip Sheet: Safe surfing

Most Web surfing is done through browsers such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome and Safari. While these browsers are updated regularly, our use of the Web has evolved to the point where we now do many things online, such as shopping and banking. For that reason, there are a number of potential risks that come with using the Web.

Cyber Security Consumer Tip Sheet: Protecting yourself from Malware

Malware is a general term to describe destructive programs that can harm your computer or any other device that connects to the Internet, including smart phones, mp3 players and tablets.

Getting the goods ethically

One of the most common ethical decisions kids face online relates to how they access and use content like music, games and videos. We can help kids make better choices by teaching them about the issue: in one study, one-quarter of young people said that they would stop accessing content illegally if it was more clear what was legal and what wasn’t.

Cyber Security Consumer Tip Sheet: Socializing and interacting online

For most of us, the Internet has become an indispensable part of our social lives: we use it to keep up with old friends, keep in touch with our families and meet new people. Unfortunately, not all online interactions are as positive as these. This tip sheet will explain some of the issues we face when we socialize online and provide tips for dealing with them.