Password power
Focus Questions
1. Why is password security important?
2. What sorts of things are passwords used for?
3. Give some examples of passwords that were on the `worst passwords’ list.
4. Which hotmail password was banned recently?
5. What is a dictionary attack?
6. Complete the following sentence: The best passwords are…
7. Give an example of a strong password.
8. What is phishing and shoulder surfing?
9. What would be your 5 tips for good computer security?
10. Illustrate an aspect of the Password power story.
Password power
Watch the BtN story Password power. Summarise the story in your own words. Watch the story again and listen carefully. Circle each of the following words as you hear them.
software / dictionary attack / phishing
shoulder surfing / fingerprint recognition / secure
Ask students to write what they think is the meaning of each word. Swap definitions with a partner and ask them to add to or change the definition. Check these against the dictionary definition. Ask students to write their own sentences using the key words.
Students will create a comic strip, brochure or advertisement to highlight the importance of good computer security, including using passwords that are hard to guess. Use the following questions to focus a class discussion about the topic.
· What online activities and accounts require password protection?
· Why are strong passwords important?
· What sorts of passwords should be avoided?
· What are the risks if someone accesses your computer?
· What are some other cyber security measures?
· How could you improve your own computer security?
Students then plan their brochure, comic strip or advertisement to educate young people about cyber security.
· What information do young people need to know about cyber security
· How will the information be presented?
· What graphics will be used (illustrations, photos)?
Students who choose to make a comic strip may want to create it online at the following website http://www.readwritethink.org/parent-afterschool-resources/games-tools/comic-creator-a-30237.html
Encourage students to share their final products and to give feedback about how effectively they highlight the importance of cyber security.
Further Investigation
Invite an expert to the school to talk about the importance of computer security. Prepare questions to ask in advance.
8 Related Research Links
ABC Behind the News – Digital footprint
http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s3220088.htm
ABC Behind the News – Malware
http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s2316644.htm
ACMA Cybersmart – Your digital footprint
http://www.cybersmart.gov.au/Kids/Tips%20to%20stay%20safe%20and%20cybersmart/Your%20digital%20footprint.aspx
ACCC Scamwatch – Phishing
http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/RequestsForYourAccountInformation
© ABC 2011