July 31, 2026
Online Safety:Safe Online Activities
In our society,everyone is moving towards the digital side of things and everyone is out on the internet and information is everywhere and…
By Eniolaaiyesimi
2 min read
In our society,everyone is moving towards the digital side of things and everyone is out on the internet and information is everywhere and safety is being put aside or not taken seriously,leading to many irreversible damages and a lot of hurt.Hence,the need to be safe online.We do a lot of things online these days and some of us don't know it,but we leave traces of our actions online that can later be found or used against us and most people will say"I deleted it, so it doesn't matter anymore",but it actually does,because everything we post,say or send online stays online.Even when we delete it something or someone might have already seen it,saved it or shared it.
What is the Internet?
The Internet (short for Interconnected Networks) is a global system of interconnected computer networks that use a standardized set of protocols (TCP/IP) to link devices worldwide.
Your Digital Footprint
Your digital footprint is the path you leave online when you use the interne.Be mindful of what you post.It consists of things like;
- Your favorite apps.
- Websites visited.
- Videos/pictures downloaded.
- Messages sent.
- Comments posted.
These things listed matter.What does your digital footprint look like?,Is it good or bad?
GOLDEN RULE:Think before you click.
How to preserve your Digital Footprint
- Always think long-term before posting.
- Keep personal information private.
- Use privacy settings on social networking pages.
- Protect your privacy and the privacy of your friends.
Why is it important to be mindful of our actions online?
Imagine applying for something important(like work or school)and you are given the opportunity for that thing but then a background search is done and something you did or said online comes back and its ruins your chance at that particular thing or ruins your image,things like this matter.And once its out there its hard to take it back.
What could go wrong?
We always ask this question "Oh what's the worst that can happen" or "What could possibly go wrong",a lot can wrong,all it takes is someone with the wrong intentions and a few skills and that's it.Strangers can learn personal details like your school,house address or your family.Bullies or scammers can use information against you.
Safe online activities
The acronym SMART summarizes safe online activities.SMART means;
S-Share responsibly: Be careful with what you post.Ask permission if someone is in the video or photo.
M-Manage your privacy
A-Ask for help: Don't be scared to ask for help.You won't be judged.
R-Respect Others: Be kind.Other people have different opinions from you.
T-Think critically or Trust your instincts
Digital Citizen's code
As people who use the internet and social media, we are all digital citizens and there are codes of conduct we must follow.Here they are
I am a digital citizen;
- I listen to my gut: I make sure that I am safe and appropriate when I am online. I will visit appropriate websites
- When I'm at school, I will use my personal device for educational purposes only.
- I will listen to my head: I will protect my private information and the information of others.
- I listen to my heart: I respect myself and others when I'm online.I use kind words and remember that my "digital footprint" should not harm others.
- I stand up and say "NO" to cyber-bullying.I will tell an adult about the situation.
Always remember to be mindful of what you do online.