Page 88 - Cyber Safety C-7

Grammar & spelling: Always reread your message before sending to correct any spelling or
grammar mistakes and ensure your message is easy to understand.

Respect privacy: Never forward, screenshot or share someone’s messages or photos without
asking them first, as it can break trust and cause problems.

Protect information: Keep your passwords, personal details and private information safe and
never share them online, even with friends.

Polite language: Use respectful and friendly words in your messages because the tone you
use can affect how others feel and understand your message.
Avoid all caps: Typing in all capital letters can look like shouting, so use normal text to keep
your message calm, polite and easy to read.

Limit emojis: Use emojis only when needed and avoid overloading your chats with too many
symbols or unnecessary forwards that may distract others.

Think before typing: Pause for a moment before sending your message, because once
something is shared online, it can be difficult to take back.

“When a conversation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, your strongest defence
is using the tools that protect you. Blocking and reporting help you stay in
control and keep your digital space safe.”

SETTING BOUNDARIES: BLOCK, REPORT AND MUTE

You have the power to control who can contact you online. Setting boundaries helps you decide
who is allowed to message you and what kind of behaviour is acceptable. When you know how to
block or report someone, you protect yourself from strangers, rude messages, scams and other
unsafe situations. Learning to set these limits is an important part of staying safe and feeling
confident while using email and messaging apps.

The Block Button

Blocking is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself online. It helps you stop unwanted
conversations and keeps your digital space safe and comfortable. Using the block option gives
you control over who can contact you.

What does blocking do?
It stops that person from sending you messages or seeing your status updates.

When should I block someone?

When someone sends rude or threatening messages.
When a person asks for personal information.

86 Computer Science - VII