Know and understand minimising the potential danger of using the internet including only using trusted websites recommended by teachers, using a search engine that only allows access to age appropriate websites

Published by Patrick Mutisya · 14 days ago

ICT 0417 – Safety and Security

Topic 8: Safety and Security

Objective

Students should be able to:

  1. Identify the potential dangers of using the Internet.

  2. Explain how to minimise those dangers.

  3. Use only trusted websites recommended by teachers.

  4. Use a search engine that restricts results to age‑appropriate sites.

1. Why Internet Safety Matters

The Internet provides vast amounts of information and communication tools, but it also exposes users to risks such as:

  • Malware and viruses.

  • Inappropriate or harmful content.

  • Online scams and phishing.

  • Cyber‑bullying and harassment.

  • Privacy breaches and data theft.

2. Trusted Websites

A trusted website is one that has been evaluated and approved by a teacher or a reliable authority. Characteristics include:

  • Clear ownership or institutional affiliation (e.g., .gov, .edu, or a recognised school domain).

  • Secure connection – the URL begins with https:// and shows a padlock icon.

  • Content that is relevant to the lesson and appropriate for the age group.

  • Absence of pop‑up ads, download prompts, or requests for personal information.

3. Using Age‑Appropriate Search Engines

Search engines designed for schools filter results to protect learners. Key features:

  • Pre‑defined safe‑search settings.

  • Blocked categories (e.g., gambling, adult content, violent media).

  • Option to report unsuitable results.

Examples of school‑friendly search tools (subject to teacher approval):

Search EngineSafety FeaturesTypical Use in Class
Google SafeSearch (restricted mode)Filters explicit content, can be locked by admin.General research, quick fact‑finding.
KiddleDesigned for children, blocks adult sites, simple UI.Primary and lower secondary projects.
SafeSearchKidsOnly returns results from vetted educational sites.Subject‑specific investigations.

4. Practical Steps for Students

  1. Log in using the school‑provided account only.

  2. Check the URL: it should start with https:// and belong to a recognised domain.

  3. Look for the padlock symbol in the address bar – it indicates a secure connection.

  4. Do not click on pop‑up ads or download files unless instructed by the teacher.

  5. Report any suspicious or inappropriate content to the teacher immediately.

  6. When using a search engine, keep the search terms focused on the lesson topic.

  7. Always log out when finished.

5. Teacher Responsibilities

  • Provide a list of approved websites and explain why they are safe.

  • Configure school computers to use a filtered search engine as the default.

  • Teach students how to recognise secure connections and phishing attempts.

  • Monitor internet usage and intervene when unsafe behaviour is observed.

  • Update the safe‑site list regularly to reflect new resources.

6. Summary Checklist

CheckAction
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Using a teacher‑approved website.
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URL begins with https:// and shows a padlock.
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Search engine is set to age‑appropriate mode.
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No personal data entered unless required for the task.
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Any suspicious content reported to the teacher.

Suggested diagram: Flowchart showing the steps a student should take before clicking a link – check URL, verify security padlock, confirm site is on the approved list, then click.