The Family Cyber Safety Playbook
Make smart moves to block scammers, protect kids, and defend your data.
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Be Smart. Be Safe. Be a Cyber Hero!
The internet is a big, exciting place where we can learn, play games, talk to friends, and even shop. But just like you wear a helmet when riding your bike, you also need to protect yourself when you’re online. That’s what this guide is for! We’re here to help you and your family stay safe, smart, and confident every time you go online.
Inside this brochure, you’ll learn how to make super-secret passwords that even sneaky hackers can’t guess. You’ll discover fun ways to ruin a hacker’s day just by being careful and paying attention. We’ll also show you smart money tips—so no one can trick you into giving away your cash! And for families, there are awesome tools and tips to help kids and parents stay safe and kind on the internet together.
Are you ready to become a Cyber Hero? Let’s dive in and learn how to click safely, shop wisely, and protect the people we love most—ourselves and our families!
Keep Your Cash Safe: Online Money Moves That Matter
Clicking “Buy Now” can be super convenient, but online shopping and money apps are also playgrounds for sneaky scammers. That’s why it’s important to follow smart rules when sending or spending money online. Scammers will try anything—from fake Facebook Marketplace profiles to “urgent” gift card requests. But with your sharp eyes and a healthy dose of “Wait a minute…,” you can protect your wallet like a pro.
Smart Money Moves Online:
- Shop with credit, not debit: Credit cards have better protection if something goes wrong.
- Use “Goods and Services”: Always select this when sending money online—it offers more protection.
- Check the seller: Look up sellers on the Better Business Bureau before you buy.
- Review your bank statements: Spot surprises by checking your account weekly—or even more often!
- Don’t fall for “pay with gift card” tricks: Real companies never ask for gift cards or passwords.
- Stay skeptical: If a deal sounds way too good, it probably isn’t real.
Screens & Kiddos: Keep It Cool, Keep It Kind
Let’s face it—kids love screens. And sometimes, screens are helpful! Every child is unique, and how they use media can affect them in different ways. Parents don’t need to be tech wizards—just curious, caring, and willing to have conversations. By following the “5 C’s” of smart media use, families can create healthy screen habits, enjoy more quality time, and turn screen time into a chance for learning, bonding, and better sleep (yes, really!).
The 5 C’s of Media Use for Families:
- Child: Know your child’s personality. What kind of media do they like—and how does it affect them?
- Content: Watch and play with them. Help them think about what’s helpful, harmful, or just too much.
- Calm: Screens shouldn’t be the only way to relax. Create calming routines and explore non-digital ways to wind down.
- Crowding Out: Don’t just cut screen time— trade it for fun stiff like pets, puzzles, movies, or time outdoors.
- Communication: Talk openly and often. Ask questions, listen without judgement, and support them in becoming smart digital citizens.
Password Power: Lock the Door to Hackers!
Imagine your password is a magic key. Would you want it to be something like “1234” or “FluffyTheDragon42Ra!nbowCak3”? One of those is way harder for sneaky hackers to guess—and a lot more fun to remember! That’s called a passphrase, and it’s your secret weapon. Passphrases use silly or strange word combos and numbers that make sense to you but are total nonsense to a hacker. And remember, your passwords are for your eyes only—not your best friend, not a stranger, and definitely not someone on the phone pretending to be your bank!
Quick Tips for Super Passwords:
- Create passphrases: Use four or more random words and numbers (e.g., Banana42JellyRocketDuck).
- No personal info: Never include names, birthdays, or favorite pizza toppings.
- No repeats: Every website gets its own unique passphrase.
- Keep it secret: No one should ask for you password—not even “tech support”.
- Write it down safely: A notebook is okay—just don’t keep it next to your keyboard!
- Use a password manager: They help make and keep track of strong passwords.
- Choose trusted tools: Use top-rated password managers like LastPass and KeePass to keep your passwords secure.
You’ve Got the Power to Stay Safe Online!
Being safe on the internet doesn’t have to be scary or hard. With just a few smart habits, you can outsmart hackers, protect your money, and help your whole family surf safely. Keep this brochure handy as your cheat sheet to becoming a Cyber Hero—every click, tap, and swipe can be safer when you know what to look for!
Top 5 Cyber-Smart Moves:
- Create strong passphrases and never reuse passwords.
- Pause before you click - check links and emails for signs of phishing.
- Shop with credit cards and always check who you’re buying from.
- Talk with kids about what they see, play, and feel online.
- Update your devices regularly for better security.
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