Digital Literacy and Internet Safety Flashcards

What does 'HTTPS' in a web address indicate?

Answer: The website uses an encrypted connection, making data transmission more secure

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) uses TLS encryption to protect data exchanged between your browser and the website.

What is 'cyberbullying' and what is an appropriate response if you witness it online?

Answer: Using digital technology to repeatedly harass, threaten, or humiliate someone; report it to the platform and, if serious, to authorities.

Cyberbullying involves repeated digital harassment — appropriate responses include not retaliating, saving evidence, reporting, and seeking support.

What is 'digital footprint' and why does it matter?

Answer: The trail of data you leave online through browsing, social media, and purchases — it can affect your reputation and privacy long-term.

Your digital footprint — posts, comments, browsing history, and online accounts — is potentially permanent and visible to employers, colleges, and others.

What does 'open source' software mean?

Answer: Software whose source code is freely available for anyone to view, modify, and distribute

Open source software's code is publicly available — communities can inspect, improve, and build upon it. Examples: Linux, Firefox, LibreOffice.

What is 'cloud storage' and what is a key security consideration when using it?

Answer: Storing data on remote servers accessed via the internet; key security concern is using strong passwords and 2FA to protect access.

Cloud storage hosts your files remotely (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) — accessible from anywhere but requiring strong authentication to stay secure.

What is 'net neutrality'?

Answer: The principle that internet service providers should treat all internet traffic equally, without slowing or blocking certain content

Net neutrality prevents ISPs from creating 'fast lanes' for certain content or blocking/throttling competitors' services.