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Scammers know that students spend a lot of time online. They may use fake messages, websites, or offers to steal passwords, money, or personal information.
Watch out for:
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Phishing Scams: Fake emails or texts that look like they came from a school, teacher, or company. They may ask students to click a link, enter a password, or provide personal information.
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Fake Scholarships: Be careful with scholarships that promise easy money but ask for a fee, bank information, or other sensitive information.
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Gaming Scams: Offers for free in-game currency, rare items, cheats, or upgrades may be tricks designed to steal accounts or money.
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Hacked School Accounts: If a scammer steals a school password, they may be able to read email, access files, or pretend to be the student.
Family rule: If a message is unexpected, creates urgency, or asks for money or personal information, stop and verify before you act.
Cybersecurity doesn't have to be complicated. Start with a few basic habits everyone in the family can follow.
Use Parental Controls
Phones, tablets, gaming systems, and streaming services often have parental controls. Use them to manage what kids can see and do, who they can communicate with, and whether they can make purchases.
Teach Kids to Spot Scams
Teach kids to be careful with unexpected links, attachments, and messages. They should never share passwords or security codes. Encourage them to ask a trusted adult when something doesn't seem right.
Make Gaming Safer
- Use a different password for each gaming account.
- Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and use passkeys when available.
- Be careful with trades, giveaways, and messages from strangers.
- Don't save payment information unless you need to.
Check Social Media Privacy
Review who can see posts, send messages, tag your child, or see their location. Remind kids that photos can reveal their school, location, and daily routine without them realizing it.
Tip: Review privacy settings together as a family. Adults need privacy checkups too.
Students and teachers use online accounts every day. Protecting those accounts helps protect schoolwork and personal information.
Protect Your Password
Use a strong password that isn't used for other accounts. Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and use passkeys when available. Never share your password with friends.
Share Files Carefully
Before sharing a document or file, check who can see it. Avoid making files public unless they really need to be.
Keep Video Calls Private
Don't post classroom meeting links publicly. Use meeting passwords and waiting rooms when available. Also check what's visible or being discussed in the background.
Keep Devices Updated
Turn on automatic updates and install updates as soon as they are available.
Learning how to use technology safely is an important skill for kids and adults.
The Marin County Office of Education provides resources for local schools, students, families, and educators. Marin libraries can also help community members build digital skills and learn how to use technology safely.
Explore available resources:
Marin County Office of Education https://www.marinschools.org/
Marin County Free Library https://marinlibrary.org/
Check with your school or library for current classes, workshops, and other digital learning opportunities.
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