Secure your secrets
Keep it to yourself
Goals
Customize privacy settings for the online services they use.
Make decisions about information sharing on the sites and services they use.
Understand what two-factor and two-step verifications mean and when to use them.
Let's talk
Privacy equals security
Online privacy and online security go hand in hand. Most apps and software offer ways to control what information weʼre sharing and how.
When youʼre using an app or website, look for an option like “My Account” or “Settings.” Thatʼs where youʼll find the privacy and security settings that let you decide: • What information is visible in your profile • Who can view your posts, photos, videos, or other content that you share
Learning to use these settings to protect your privacy, and remembering to keep them updated, will help you manage your privacy, security, and safety. It’s important to know that your parents or guardian should always be making these decisions with you.
Activity
Review options
I have my laptop hooked up to the projection screen. Let’s navigate to the settings page of this app. We can see that our options include:
- Changing your password
- Getting alerts if someone tries to log in to your account from an unknown device
- Making your online profile – including photos and videos – only visible to your chosen circles of family and friends
- Enabling two-factor authentication or two-step verification
Additional verification options
Let’s talk about two-step and two-factor verification:
- Two-step verification: When you log into your account, it will require two steps. For example, it may ask you to enter your password AND text you a code that has to be entered within 10 minutes before it expires.
- Two-factor verification: The system will require two types of information to log you in. For example, it may ask for your normal password and your fingerprint.
Which privacy and security settings are right for you is something to discuss with your parent or guardian. But remember, the most important security setting is in your brain – you make the key decisions about how much of your personal info to share, when, and with whom.
Takeaway
Choosing a strong, unique password for each of your important accounts is a good first step. Now you need to remember them and also keep them safe.
Writing down your passwords isn’t necessarily a bad idea. But if you do this, don’t leave a page with your passwords in plain sight, such as on your computer or desk. Safeguard your list, and protect yourself by hiding it somewhere safe.