Teaching Primary-Aged Children About Cybersecurity

Understanding How Personal Data is Used Online

In today’s digital world, teaching children about cybersecurity is as essential as teaching them how to cross the street safely. As children begin to explore the online space, it’s important they understand how their personal data is used and the potential risks involved. But how do we explain the complexities of personal data to primary-aged children in a way that they can grasp?

Do Your Children Know How Their Personal Data Is Used Online?

When children log onto websites, use apps, or play online games, they’re often giving away more information than they realise. By understanding the different types of data that can be collected, we can help them make smarter, safer decisions about how they interact online. Let’s explore the three types of personal data and why they matter in terms of cybersecurity.

1. Given Data: The Data We Share Directly

This is the type of data that most children are already somewhat aware of. When we talk about online safety, we often focus on Given Data because it’s the information we consciously provide when using the internet. Examples include:

• Sharing hobbies and interests on social media.
• Posting pictures or videos.
• Typing in personal details like their name or age to sign up for a game or website.

Given Data is what we deliberately provide. Many children understand that they should only share this data with people they know, but what they might not realise is how hard it can be to control once it’s out there. Once something is posted online, it’s incredibly difficult to remove completely. Their pictures, posts, and personal information can be shared or copied far beyond what they originally intended, even by strangers. Teaching children to think twice before sharing any information online is a key part of staying safe.

Key takeaway for children: “Once you post something online, it’s very hard to take it back. Make sure you’re only sharing things you’re okay with others seeing.”

2. Acquired Data: The Hidden Information

Now, here’s where things get a bit trickier. Acquired Data refers to the information we may not even realise we’re sharing. This type of data is often collected in the background while we use websites, apps, or online platforms. For example, websites can gather:

• The type of browser we’re using (like Chrome or Safari).
• Our IP address, which can give a rough idea of where we are located or which internet provider we’re using.

This data is important because it helps online platforms run smoothly. Sometimes, it’s used to improve security by keeping track of what users are doing online. For example, on platforms like DB Primary, some data is acquired to help teachers monitor posts and ensure students are using the platform safely. This creates an audit trail that can identify who made a particular post, helping to keep students accountable.

However, it’s important for children to understand that not all acquired data is used for safety. In many cases, companies might use this information for other purposes, like advertising. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of what kind of data is being collected, even when we’re not actively giving it.

Key takeaway for children: “Even when you’re just browsing or playing a game, websites might be collecting information about you. It’s important to know what data is being shared.”

3. Inferred Data: The Information Pieced Together

The final type of data is Inferred Data, and it’s becoming more significant with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Inferred Data is the information that websites or apps can guess about you based on your Given Data and Acquired Data. For instance:

• If you often look at sports websites and search for football gear, it might be inferred that you like football.
• If you frequently use certain apps at a particular time, companies may assume you have specific routines or interests.

Inferred Data is used by companies to build a detailed profile of users. This is often done without users realising it, and the results can sometimes be very accurate. For instance, the types of ads you see online are often based on inferred information about your likes, interests, and habits.

Teaching children about Inferred Data can be tricky, but it’s important for them to understand that the more data they share online, the more websites and apps can piece together information about them. This can lead to more personalised online experiences, but it can also raise concerns about privacy.

Key takeaway for children: “Sometimes websites can make guesses about you based on what you do online. That’s why it’s important to think carefully about the information you share, even when you’re just browsing.”

Why Understanding Data Matters for Cybersecurity

Knowing how Given, Acquired, and Inferred Data work helps children understand the bigger picture of cybersecurity. The more aware they are of how their data is collected and used, the better equipped they’ll be to protect themselves online.

Here are a few simple tips children can follow to protect their personal data:

1. Be cautious about what you post – Once something is online, it can be hard to take down.
2. Understand what data is being collected – Some data is collected even when you’re not aware of it.
3. Think about how your data might be used – Companies and websites can guess a lot about you based on your online activity.

By teaching children these concepts early, we’re empowering them to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. As technology continues to evolve, understanding data usage is essential in keeping our personal information secure.