This week, Workington Academy is marking Safer Internet Day on Tuesday, 11th February, with assemblies, form activities, and quizzes for all year groups.
This year’s theme, ‘Too Good to Be True’, highlights the dangers of online scams and how to stay safe when using the internet.
Who Can Be a Victim of Online Scams?
Anyone! Scammers target:
✅ Children and young people
✅ Elderly people
✅ Those unfamiliar with technology
Even the most tech-savvy users can fall for fake offers, phishing emails, and deepfakes – AI-generated images, audio, and videos designed to trick people.
How to Spot a Scam
🔍 ‘Too Good to Be True’ offers – If it seems unrealistic, it probably is.
📱 Social Media Ad Scams – Look for fake brands, bad reviews, and misleading claims.
💳 Fake Checkout Pages – Check for security indicators (https, padlock symbol).
✉️ Phishing Emails – Watch out for spelling mistakes, generic greetings, and time pressure tactics.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam?
🚨 Report it to a trusted adult, teacher, or the police.
🔗 Verify links before clicking – use official websites.
🛑 Stop and think – scammers rely on rushing people into making quick decisions.
💡 Test your knowledge! Take the Safer Internet Day Quiz:
👉 Years 7-9: Safer Internet Quiz (11-14 years)
👉 Years 10-13: Safer Internet Quiz (14-18 years)
Stay alert, stay informed, and help make the internet a safer place for everyone!
