Page 81 - Cyber Safety C-7

For Ananya and for many teenagers, email and messaging apps are part of everyday life. They
help with schoolwork, sharing information and staying connected. Because they are used so often,
it is important to use them safely.

Email and messaging safety means using digital
communication in a smart, careful and protected way.
It includes checking who the message is from, avoiding
suspicious links or attachments and sharing only the
information that is necessary. It also means being polite,
respectful and careful about what you send, because once
a message is shared, it can be forwarded or saved by

others. By following safe communication habits, you can enjoy using email and messaging apps
confidently without facing scams, cyberbullying or other harmful situations.

Importance of Email and Messaging Safety

Emails and messaging apps such as Gmail, Yahoo Mail and WhatsApp allow you to communicate
instantly. They are much faster than writing letters and make it easy to share photos, videos and
important updates.

However, not every message you receive is safe. Cybercriminals may send emails or chats that
look real, but are designed to steal personal information or trick you into clicking harmful links.
For example, in the “PAN 2.0” scam, scammers sent fake emails that appeared to be from the
Income Tax Department, asking people to share sensitive details in order to get an updated PAN
card. Just like in the real world, not everyone online is honest. Scammers and bullies can use both
email and messaging apps to trick or hurt you. Being safe means protecting your information and

your peace of mind.

“Before you tap or open a message, you should know what dangers may be
hiding inside. Let’s explore the common threats in email and messaging.”

21 st
ONLINE PRESENCE CHECK Century #Technology Literacy
Skills

Search your name on a search engine and explore the results. Check for your profiles on social media
platforms like Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn. Take note of any photos, links or personal details that
appear. Reflect on what these results say about your online presence and how they could affect your
privacy.

Email and Messaging Safety 79