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SAFETY GUIDES

Internet Safety and Scam Prevention for Beginners

Technology should help you, not frighten you. These plain language guides teach simple habits that can help you recognize common online risks and know what to do next.

THE MOST IMPORTANT HABIT

You do not have to respond immediately.

If a message, phone call, email, or website makes you feel rushed, worried, or confused, stop before you act.

You can close the message, step away, ask someone you trust, or contact the organization another way. Taking a moment is a safety skill.

SAFETY LIBRARY

Learn the habits that protect you

01

Passwords

A password protects an account. Treat it as private information and do not give it to someone just because they ask.

Remember

  • Use strong, unique passwords when possible.
  • Do not share passwords with strangers.
  • Be cautious if someone asks for a password by email or message.
  • Consider using a password manager if it is appropriate for you.
02

Scams

Scammers often use fear, urgency, excitement, or authority to make people act before they have time to think.

Watch for

  • Unexpected requests for money.
  • Prizes you never entered to win.
  • Urgent family or government payment requests.
  • Someone demanding immediate action.
03

Phishing

Phishing is an attempt to trick you into giving away information or clicking something unsafe by pretending to be a person or organization you recognize.

Pause when

  • The sender looks unfamiliar.
  • The message asks for sensitive information.
  • A link looks strange or unexpected.
  • The message threatens consequences if you do not act now.
04

Online Privacy

Personal information can be valuable. Think carefully about what you share and who really needs to have it.

Protect

  • Passwords and account information.
  • Social Security and financial information.
  • Personal contact information.
  • Private photographs and documents.
05

Safe Clicking

A link or download can take you somewhere you did not expect. You can always pause before opening it.

Before clicking

  • Look at where the link came from.
  • Read the message carefully.
  • Do not download unexpected files.
  • When unsure, navigate to the official website yourself instead.
06

When Something Feels Wrong

You do not need to figure everything out by yourself. Asking for help is a smart technology skill.

What to do

  • Stop and do not respond.
  • Close the message or website.
  • Write down what happened.
  • Ask someone you trust for help.

THE STOP METHOD

A simple way to slow things down.

STOP

Do not let a message rush you into a decision.

LOOK

Check the sender, request, link, and details.

THINK

Ask whether the situation makes sense.

VERIFY

Use a trusted way to confirm the request.

ASK

If you are unsure, get help before acting.

PRACTICE SCENARIO

“Your account will be closed today!”

A message tells you to click a link immediately to prevent your account from being closed.

What should you do?

  1. Stop. Do not click the link.
  2. Look at who sent the message.
  3. Think about whether the request makes sense.
  4. Verify by opening the organization's known website yourself or using a trusted phone number.
  5. Ask for help if you still are not sure.

REMEMBER

Being careful is not being afraid.

You can enjoy technology and still be cautious. Good digital habits give you more confidence because you know how to slow down when something does not look right.

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