Internet Safety 101: Navigating the Digital Universe With Confidence

By: Camille Greenwell | Seasonal Public Relations Intern | Digital4Good

In this day and age, it is becoming increasingly difficult to avoid Internet usage. From contacting friends and classmates to keeping up with current events, the Internet has become a ubiquitous and almost necessary part of our daily lives. With this frequent usage comes a significant responsibility on our part to navigate these spaces safely and responsibly.

The Good, the Bad, and the Loading Screen

With a multitude of resources for users to explore and utilize, the Internet is an invaluable tool. However, there are spaces within the broader digital landscape with a high frequency of toxicity and unsavory content. 

Whether you’re scrolling through apps like X or Instagram or interacting with people in chat rooms, unwanted content, such as NSFW (not safe for work) material or cyberbullying, is incredibly difficult to avoid. This blog is intended not to dissuade readers from using the Internet, especially social media platforms, but to ensure users are aware of the risks so they can avoid potential dangers while enjoying the many resources the Internet has to offer.

Internet Safety 101

The Internet is constantly evolving and churning out new media for its users to consume — far more content than any one person can keep up with. As trends shift and new platforms emerge, it is important that we maintain our digital safety, literacy, and wellness. 

Protect Your Private Data

The number one rule of the Internet — one that many of us are likely familiar with — is to never give out your personal information. Even information as basic as your name, age, and birthday can pose a danger to you if fallen into the wrong hands. Making sure that your information is protected can help prevent scams, identity theft, and doxxing.

Follow these steps to maintain your privacy:

• Social media sites like Instagram and X allow users to have private accounts. By setting your account to private, only certain users can view your profile and posts. This is a great way of keeping your posts, pictures, and other information hidden from unwanted viewers. 
• Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help protect your data and browsing history. This is especially important if you’re using unprotected networks like public Wi-Fi.

Filter Your Content

One of the easiest ways to avoid content you don’t want to see is by creating your own content filters. Websites like X and Facebook allow you to block certain keywords to shield you from posts about an unwanted subject. You can also block specific users’ accounts in order to completely remove their content from your feed. Additionally, installing ad-block extensions on your Internet browser can help free up your screen from distracting ads and prevent unwelcome pop-up windows.

These simple actions will help minimize the chances of undesirable content reaching your feed.

Prevent Scams

If someone knocked on your door and handed you a briefcase filled with a million dollars, you would think it was too good to be true. Spoiler alert: it always is.  Not all scams are obvious pop-ups claiming you’ve won a free iPhone. Scams can come in many forms, some difficult to detect. 

Prevent yourself from falling victim to a scam with these tips:

• Never open links from suspicious emails or texts, as these could be used to compromise and even steal your data.
• Never respond to phone calls, text messages, or emails from numbers you do not recognize. It is often recommended to block these numbers to prevent further contact.
• Do not click on pop-ups or suspicious-looking ads. 

Manage Your Digital Footprint

”What goes on the Internet stays on the Internet.” With screenshotting and digital archives, deleted information never truly goes away. Social media posts, even from years back, can be found and put users in compromising situations. Always be mindful of what you post and share on your social media platforms, especially if these platforms use your real name.

Build Digital Literacy Skills

Social networking spaces are constantly flooded with new information, much of which is biased or AI-generated. Learning to separate fact from fiction is vital not just for learning and research but also for your personal health and safety.

Digital4Good is committed to empowering and educating the Internet users of today and tomorrow. Visit the Digital4Good website to learn about our curricula on digital media literacy and online safety.