Personal information refers to any data that can be used to identify you as an individual. This includes details such as your full name, home address, telephone number, email address, date of birth, school name, and photographs that show your face or location.

It is essential to recognise that sharing such information online can expose you to various risks. In this lesson, we shall explore the importance of protecting your personal information on the internet and the reasons why it is advisable not to share it indiscriminately.

Examples of Personal Information

• Full name
• Home address
• Telephone number
• Email address
• Date of birth
• School name or location
• Photographs or videos that reveal your identity or whereabouts

Sharing personal information online can expose you to significant dangers. It is crucial to understand these risks in order to protect your privacy and safety effectively. In today's digital world, where information spreads quickly and widely, being aware of potential threats is essential for making responsible choices online.

Below is a detailed list of the primary risks associated with sharing personal information on the internet. Each risk is explained briefly here, and we will explore them in greater detail in the subsequent steps of this lesson. Understanding these dangers will empower you to safeguard your personal data more effectively.

• Identity Theft: This occurs when unauthorised individuals use your personal details to impersonate you, potentially leading to financial or reputational harm. Criminals might access your accounts or create new ones in your name, causing long-term consequences.
• Cyberbullying: This involves the use of digital platforms to harass, threaten, or embarrass others, often facilitated by access to personal information. Bullies can use shared details to target individuals more personally and persistently.
• Unwanted Contact from Strangers: Disclosing personal details can result in unsolicited approaches from unknown persons, which may pose safety threats. Such contacts could escalate to more serious risks if not handled promptly.
• Phishing Scams: These are fraudulent schemes designed to deceive you into revealing sensitive information through seemingly legitimate communications. Scammers often pose as trustworthy entities to trick you into providing data.

Identity theft is a serious crime that occurs when an unauthorised individual gains access to your personal information and uses it to impersonate you. This can involve activities such as opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or making purchases in your name without your permission. The consequences can be severe, including financial losses, damage to your credit rating, and harm to your reputation.

How Identity Theft Happens

Identity thieves often obtain personal details through various means, such as hacking into online accounts, stealing data from unsecured websites, or tricking individuals into revealing information. Once they have this data, they can exploit it for fraudulent purposes.

Consequences of Identity Theft

• Financial problems: You may face unexpected debts or difficulties in obtaining credit.
• Reputational damage: False information or actions attributed to you can affect your personal and professional life.
• Emotional distress: Dealing with the aftermath can be stressful and time-consuming.

Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft

To safeguard against identity theft, it is crucial to adopt responsible online habits. Here are some key steps:

1. Never share personal information, such as your full name, address, or date of birth, on public platforms or with unknown individuals.
2. Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
3. Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages that request personal details, and verify the source before responding.
4. Regularly monitor your accounts for any unusual activity and report any concerns immediately to the relevant authorities or institutions.

Cyberbullying involves the use of digital platforms and technology to harass, threaten, or embarrass another individual. It can take various forms, such as sending hurtful messages, spreading rumours online, or sharing embarrassing photos without permission. Sharing personal information online can make it easier for cyberbullies to target you, as they may use details like your name, school, or location to intensify their attacks.

How Cyberbullying Happens

Cyberbullies often exploit information shared on social media, gaming platforms, or forums. For instance, if you post your full name or photos that reveal your daily routine, bullies might use this to create fake profiles or send targeted threats. This behaviour can occur anonymously, making it difficult to identify the perpetrator immediately.

Consequences of Cyberbullying

• Emotional distress: Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
• Social isolation: It can lead to difficulties in forming friendships or participating in school activities.
• Long-term effects: The impact might affect academic performance and overall well-being.

Protecting Yourself from Cyberbullying

To minimise the risks, it is important to adopt safe online practices. Here are some essential steps:

1. Be cautious about sharing personal information, such as your full name, address, or school details, on public platforms.
2. Adjust privacy settings on social media accounts to control who can see your posts and contact you.
3. Avoid engaging with suspicious or hostile messages, and do not retaliate, as this can escalate the situation.
4. If you experience cyberbullying, report it immediately to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or school counsellor. They can guide you on blocking the bully, reporting to the platform, or seeking further help.

Test your knowledge on avoiding unwanted contact from strangers with these real-life online scenarios. For each situation, select the safest action to protect yourself. Choose an option to receive immediate feedback with an explanation.