Teaching Cyber Security For Teens

Young people are native screen users, that is, they don’t know a world without internet-connected devices, games and technology. As educators, it's our duty to guide the younger generation to be safe in the online world. It’s no longer enough to learn about how to use these devices correctly, they need to be informed about how to protect themselves and empower them to guide others.

This is why cyber security for teens has become almost mandatory in this day and age.

Importance of consent before sharing content

The internet is a vast repository of information and memories, and kids love sharing everything online. It's crucial to understand the significance of consent before sharing videos or information online. Gaining consent is a moral obligation and can turn into a legal one as well if the damage is significant. It’s not just about following the rules, it's about respecting other people’s privacy and acknowledging the potential impact that sharing content can have on others. It must be clear that what may seem like a harmless video or post ‘as a joke’ could hurt people’s feelings and disrupt their school lives.

Discussing real-world scenarios, cyber security for teens and consequences helps in building empathy and understanding. By doing so, we not only protect individuals but also foster a safer and more respectful online community.

Be a positive change and be upstanding

In spaces such as gaming and social media, where cyberbullying and online harassment are common, being a positive force online is more important than ever. The concept of being a cyber 'upstander', (as outlined by the eSafety Commissioner), is about taking active steps to push cyber security for teens and support those who are targeted online and to create a positive change.  Here’s where young people can really make a difference and lead in their peer group. Encourage them to be 'upstanders' – a respected person who will stand up for others online. Show them how to be the good in the world, to step in and help if they see someone being picked on. Role-playing, talking about real situations, telling them about the importance of cyber security for teens and just being open about these things can turn them into superheroes of the digital world.  

It’s not just for young people – being an upstander in your organisation can set a fantastic example of a positive cyber security culture

Fostering a culture of upstanding in organisations, schools, and homes] requires leading by example. Educating young people about the impact of their online interactions and empowering them to speak up against injustice should start at home and in the workplace. As a leading provider of security awareness training, we believe in education being an empowering experience. By educating teens to be upstanders, we're not just combating cyber bullying; we're nurturing a generation of responsible and empathetic people.

We are committed to enhancing cyber security awareness for all age groups. For comprehensive training solutions that cater to both academic and professional environments, visit our course catalogue to check out our social media for kids, online safety courses and more.