Level 4 Award in Internet Safety

The purpose of this course is to introduce individuals to the main threats to personal safety when they are using the Internet, and how best to protect themselves from these threats.

This course covers topics such as: cyber security, data security, and individual rights and responsibilities. The threats covered include: cyber security, cyberbullying, cyberstalking, identity theft, sextortion and malware (such as ransomware), inappropriate behaviour and grooming that can appear in a variety of different contexts, eg text messages, chat rooms, e-mail, social networking sites and instant messaging.

As well as learning about the main threats to personal safety, learners will also gain practical skills in protecting themselves from these threats by learning, for example, how to use firewalls, virus protection, backup software and generally maintaining high standards of personal cyber hygiene.

AIMS OF THE COURSE
These are to:

• Identify the risks that exist when using the Internet and to personal safety and personal privacy
• Identify factors that affect the reliability of information on websites
• Take precautions to protect personal safety and personal privacy
• Check the identity of other online users
• Understand the forms and characteristics of cyberbullying, grooming
• Identify where to get online help and information on e-safety
• Use appropriate browser safety and security settings to protect self and system
• Adhere to the legal requirements, guidelines and procedures that apply when working online

STRUCTURE
This training is divided into 4 sections:
Section 1: understand the risks that can exist when using the internet.
Section 2: know how to safeguard self and others when working online
Section 3: take precautions to maintain data security
Section 4: follow legal constraints, guidelines and procedures which apply when working

HOW THE COURSE IS DELIVERED
This course is delivered via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) which provides access to case studies, learning materials and activities, presentations, and web links. Online tutor support and guidance is provided throughout the course, where learners can interact with the tutors, get feedback on their progress and submit their work electronically.
As the course is delivered online, this enables learners to study any time, any place through immediate access to the VLE.

The Internet Safety Award is suitable for anyone who uses the internet, particularly young people, parents, and mature internet users. This course is also beneficial for employees working in any sector who use internet.

No previous knowledge of computers or the internet is required. It would, however be of use if candidates possessed basic IT skills. Access to this qualification is at the discretion of the centre

The Internet Safety Unit is also part of the Steps to Work Award and the National Progression Awards in Social Software and Internet Technology.