basic-computer-online-safety-security
ITIAN Basic Computer Skills Course
Technology Simplified — Solutions That Work
Online Safety and Security
Protect accounts and personal information, recognise common scams and respond safely when a message, website or caller creates pressure.
By the end of this lesson, you can…
- Create unique strong passwords and use a password manager.
- Explain multi-factor authentication and passkeys.
- Recognise common phishing and technical-support scam warning signs.
- Keep Windows, browsers and security protection updated.
Before you begin
What you need
- A computer with Windows Security available.
- One non-critical account for supervised security review.
- A trusted support person's contact details.
Safe practice
Use a practice account and non-sensitive information. Ask the computer owner before changing settings, installing software or sharing files.
Understand and practise the skill
Online safety is a set of habits: pause, verify independently and protect each account. Urgency, secrecy, unexpected payment requests and requests for codes are strong warning signs.
Key terms
Phishing
A fake message or site designed to steal information or money.
Multi-factor authentication
A second proof of identity in addition to a password.
Passkey
A device-based sign-in method designed to resist phishing.
Security update
A trusted software change that fixes known problems and vulnerabilities.
Follow the demonstration
- Review account protection. Confirm a unique password or passkey and enable multi-factor authentication where available.
- Inspect a suspicious message. Check sender details, urgency, links, attachments and requested action without clicking.
- Verify independently. Use a known phone number, official app or typed website address.
- Check Windows Security. Open the security dashboard and confirm protection has no unresolved warning.
- Check updates. Use trusted update settings for Windows and the browser.
Worked example
STOP before you act
S — Stop and do not click
T — Think about urgency and unusual requests
O — Open the official app or known website yourself
P — Phone a trusted number if you still need confirmationComplete the guided activity
Repeat the demonstration using the safe practice items and tick each completed result.
Check your understanding
Review, reflect and continue
Success criteria
- The learner pauses and verifies suspicious requests.
- Important accounts use stronger sign-in protection.
- Windows and browser security status can be checked.
Reflection prompt
What can you now do independently, and which step would you like to practise once more?