More Cyber Security for Kids

Hey everyone, Alex here! Welcome to the second part of our series on cyber security for kids. In this guide, we'll dive into the world of computer viruses and online safety. Viruses aren't just something you catch in the real world; they can also infect your computer and cause all sorts of trouble. But don't worry - I'm here to help you understand how to stay safe from these digital bugs. Plus, we'll touch on the basics of coding, so you can start creating your own cool stuff online.

So, let's get started with our journey into the digital landscape, learning how to protect ourselves from viruses and other online threats while having fun and exploring new skills.

Viruses

Although you know about the bad people on the internet to stay away from, there are still some other dangers lurking online. The internet isn't just risky because of people; it's also risky because of malicious software. These dangerous programs are called viruses. You might find them on sketchy websites that offer downloads. These viruses can mess with your computer in many ways, like making games shut down, causing your computer to crash, stealing your data without you realizing it, or even eating up your storage space until it's all gone.

Useful Guide on Coding - For Beginners!

What is coding? Coding is the process of changing or transforming instructions on a computer into a bunch of letters and numbers in a few lines that the computer can understand. Like, if you right-click on a website and click inspect, you can see the lines of coding that make the website. You can also change the coding, but it doesn't save permanently.

How to code for beginners? You should use JavaScript because it's flexible and use a Raspberry Pi, which is a computer about the size of your palm. JavaScript can help you build basic apps with standard features like a start menu and start button. It only needs a few lines of code, for example 3 to 10 lines. There are many coding toys for kids, but it doesn't mean they are only for kids. Adults can use them as well to get started as an easy way to start coding.

Coding isn't always easy, though, as it can get harder as you go. Some games take 100 to 2 million lines of code to make. So, making popular games will take a load of coding, but it gets easier the more people you have and the more experience everyone has. Some popular games like Minecraft and Fortnite take millions of lines of code to make. And even still, after the coding, you still have to add in textures, animations, build the map, and more!

Online Safety

So, there are lots of ways to stay safe online, but let me go over the basics. Use safe search filters so you don't find anything you don't want to see. Play games suitable for your age - if you're 12, don't play 15 to 18+ games. Don't talk to people online you don't know; they could bully you or hurt your feelings. Don't be rude to people. They will be rude back. If there's an ad, ask an adult to check it out and NEVER click on it. If someone offers you something, don't take it unless it's something inside of a game that you know is safe. Never share your personal details with anyone. If you want to create an account on a game, ask a parent if it's safe for you to do so. If in doubt, ASK SOMEBODY YOU TRUST - somebody you know in real life.

Dealing with Bullies

The strategies above are simple and will help you to stay safe. But what if someone is being rude to you, harassing you, being mean, or ruining your fun? Report them. It might and will hopefully get them banned from the game or chat server you're using. Block them. If you block someone, they can't speak to you, but you can't speak to them. If you don't like them, that works out. Screenshot the chat. If you do this, send it to a parent or guardian to show them. If it's bad, show the police. Evidence can be helpful to back up what you are saying. Talk to a parent if you are at home, a teacher if you are at school - a person in the real world who you trust to help you.

What about Hackers?

Hackers, game exploiters, cheats, and griefers can ruin your fun, and some can ruin your day. NEVER give anyone ANY personal information, no matter who they say they are. It is common for bad people to pretend to be in authority - maybe say they are an admin. You do not need to share any information with anyone online. If you see a hacker on a game and their actions are not doing harm, report them but continue playing if you want to. If they are doing harm, leave immediately. Hackers not doing harm are called exploiters because they have broken the rules in some way to give themselves an advantage in-game. You should report these kinds of people. Watch out for scam bots. They are a type of hacker that breaks the boundaries of games to make people click on things they shouldn't. Never and I mean NEVER click on any of the links they send or use them. If you do use them, do not accept any of the free stuff. It will ask for your personal details, which may be used for other purposes, and you will probably not get the thing they promised you anyway.

Stay Safe!

And that's pretty much it. Thanks for reading, and I hope it helps! Stay safe! And remember, if you are unhappy about anything that happens online, tell someone you trust.

We hope you found this guide on staying safe online informative and useful. The internet is an incredible place, and it's vital to enjoy all it has to offer while keeping yourself safe. We thank Alex for sharing these valuable tips, and we encourage you to share this guide with your friends and family to ensure that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable online experience.

Remember, with the right knowledge and tools, you can explore the internet with confidence. Stay safe and have fun online, and if you ever encounter any issues, don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted adult. Together, we can make the internet a safer place for everyone.