GoalSpot spam, think before clicking links and download only with a grown-up.
New words
spam · unwanted messages that advertise things or try to get information from youlink · a word or picture that takes you to another page when you click itdownload · saving a file from the internet onto your devicevirus · a harmful program that can damage a computer or spy on information
Explanation
Spam is a message nobody asked for. It may want to sell you something or to trick you into giving information. Spam often comes from an address you do not know, has strange links, or uses WORDS IN ALL CAPITAL LETTERS to rush you. A link takes you to another page. If you are unsure about a link, do not click it. Downloading a file saves it on your device. Some files carry a virus that can damage a computer or spy on information. So we download only from sites a teacher or family member trusts. The rule is simple: when you are not sure, stop, do not click, and ask an adult. There is no need to be afraid; careful habits keep us safe.
Sign of spam
What I do
Sender I do not know
do not open it; ask an adult
Strange link
do not click
Shouting in capital letters, “WIN NOW!!!”
do not reply
Asks me to download a file
do not download; ask an adult
Worked examples
An email says: “FREE PRIZE!!! CLICK NOW!!!” from an unknown address. Jana sees capital letters, a rush and a stranger. She does not click and tells her father.
Seif wants a drawing game. His teacher checks that the site is trusted and then downloads it for the class. Seif does not download games alone.
A message from a classmate has a strange link and says “look at this!”. Even a message from a friend may hold a bad link. Youssef asks his friend by speaking to him in person.
Class activity
Spam or safe? Make six cards with pretend messages, three spam and three safe: for example “Reminder: football practice at four” (safe) and “WIN A FREE PHONE!!!” (spam). Shuffle. A partner sorts them into two piles and says the sign that told them. Remember: when unsure, ask an adult.
Practice
1
What is spam?
Unwanted messages that advertise things or try to get information.
2
Name two signs that an email may be spam.
For example an unknown sender, strange links, shouting capital letters.
3
Which message is safest to trust? Say the letter.
Message
A WIN!!! CLICK NOW!!!
B Hello class, the homework is on page 4. Teacher Hoda
C Free game, click this link
B, a message from the teacher about homework. A and C look like spam.
4
A file you want to download is on a site you do not know. What do you do?
Do not download it. Ask a teacher or a family member.
