Know and understand minimising the potential danger of using social media including knowing how to block and report unwanted users, an awareness of the potential dangers of meeting an online contact face to face, avoiding the distribution of inapprop
Cambridge IGCSE ICT 0417 – Safety and Security Notes
Topic 8: Safety and Security
Learning Objective
Students will be able to minimise the potential danger of using social media by:
Knowing how to block and report unwanted users.
Understanding the risks of meeting an online contact face‑to‑face.
Avoiding the distribution of inappropriate images.
Using appropriate language online.
Respecting the confidentiality of personal data belonging to others.
1. Potential Dangers of Social Media
Social media platforms are powerful tools for communication, but they also expose users to several risks:
Cyber‑bullying and harassment.
Identity theft and phishing.
Unwanted contact from strangers.
Accidental sharing of personal or sensitive information.
Legal consequences of distributing inappropriate content.
2. Blocking and Reporting Unwanted Users
Most social media services provide built‑in features to protect users. The general steps are:
Navigate to the user’s profile or the offending post.
Select the “Block” or “Restrict” option to prevent further interaction.
Choose “Report” and follow the prompts to specify the nature of the problem (e.g., harassment, spam, inappropriate content).
Keep a record of the report reference number in case further action is needed.
Blocking stops the user from seeing your content, while reporting alerts the platform’s moderation team.
3. Meeting an Online Contact Face‑to‑Face
Never arrange a meeting with an online acquaintance without taking the following precautions:
Verify the person’s identity through video calls and multiple sources.
Inform a trusted adult or friend about the meeting details (time, place, who you are meeting).
Choose a public location and avoid isolated areas.
Never share personal address, financial details, or passwords.
If anything feels unsafe, cancel the meeting and block the contact.
4. Avoiding Distribution of Inappropriate Images
Inappropriate images include any content that is:
Sexually explicit or suggestive.
Violent or graphic.
Harassing, hateful, or discriminatory.
Protected by copyright without permission.
Sharing such material can lead to:
Legal action under local and international law.
Permanent damage to personal reputation.
School disciplinary measures.
5. Using Appropriate Language
Online communication should follow the same standards of respect as face‑to‑face interaction. Avoid:
Profanity, slurs, or hate speech.
Threats, intimidation, or bullying language.
Spreading false rumours or defamation.
Positive language promotes a safe digital environment and reduces the risk of being reported for misconduct.
6. Respecting Confidentiality of Personal Data
Personal data includes any information that can identify an individual, such as:
Name, address, telephone number.
Date of birth, school details, or employment information.
Photographs, video recordings, or voice recordings.
When handling other people's data, always:
Obtain explicit consent before sharing.
Store data securely (e.g., password‑protected files).
Delete data that is no longer needed.
Follow school or organisational data‑protection policies.
7. Quick‑Reference Checklist
Action
Do
Don’t
Blocking/Reporting
Use platform tools immediately.
Ignore harassment or assume it will stop.
Meeting Offline
Choose public places, tell someone where you are.
Meet alone in private locations.
Sharing Images
Check content is appropriate and you have permission.
Post or forward explicit or copyrighted material.
Language Use
Be respectful, avoid profanity.
Use hate speech or bullying language.
Handling Personal Data
Ask for consent, store securely, delete when done.
Share without permission, keep data unprotected.
8. Suggested Diagram
Suggested diagram: Flowchart showing steps to block and report an unwanted user on a typical social media platform.
Summary
By understanding the risks associated with social media and applying the strategies outlined above, students can protect themselves and others from online harm. Consistent practice of safe behaviours—blocking/reporting, cautious offline meetings, responsible sharing, respectful language, and data confidentiality—forms the foundation of digital citizenship required for the IGCSE ICT examination and real‑world internet use.