The Net Savvy section helps beginners build the awareness and skills needed to navigate the internet with confidence and responsibility. Being “net savvy” means more than just browsing websites—it involves knowing how to search effectively, evaluate online information, recognize bias or misinformation, and interact respectfully in digital spaces. By developing these skills, learners can use the internet not only as a source of entertainment and communication but also as a powerful tool for learning, problem-solving, and everyday decision-making.
Quick Overview
Browsers and search engines are two essential tools for navigating the internet. A web browser is a software application that allows you to access websites and view online content. Popular browsers include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari. Browsers let you visit web pages, watch videos, read articles, and interact with online applications. They also include features like bookmarks, tabs, and browsing history to help you organize and return to websites easily.
A search engine is a tool that helps you find information on the internet quickly. Examples include Google, Bing, and DuckDuckGo. When you type a query into a search engine, it scans the web and provides a list of relevant websites, images, or videos. Learning how to use search engines effectively—by choosing the right keywords, using quotes for exact phrases, and evaluating trustworthy sources—helps beginners find accurate information faster. Together, browsers and search engines form the foundation of internet navigation, making it easier to explore, learn, and communicate online.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Internet Safety and Cybersecurity – Using browsers safely involves understanding secure websites, avoiding suspicious links, and recognizing phishing attempts, connecting directly to safe computing practices.
Digital Research and Information Literacy – Effective use of search engines helps beginners locate accurate information, evaluate sources, and avoid misinformation, tying into critical thinking skills online.
Productivity and Online Tools – Browsers give access to cloud storage, email, collaboration platforms, and web-based productivity apps, linking this topic to managing digital files and working efficiently online.
Learn More
x
Quick Overview
Effective internet search is the skill of finding the information you need quickly and accurately using search engines like Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo. Instead of typing long questions or vague phrases, beginners should use specific keywords that describe exactly what they’re looking for. Using quotation marks around exact phrases, adding minus signs to exclude unwanted results, and including relevant terms like “guide” or “tutorial” can make searches much more precise. Learning these strategies saves time and helps users find trustworthy, relevant information.
In addition to using keywords effectively, it’s important to evaluate search results carefully. Not every website provides accurate or reliable information, so beginners should check the source, author, and publication date, and compare information across multiple sites. Effective search skills also include knowing how to use browser tools like tabs, bookmarks, and search filters to organize and access information efficiently. By mastering these basics, beginners can navigate the internet with confidence, find answers faster, and make better decisions based on credible information.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Browsers and Search Engines – Effective searching relies on understanding how browsers and search engines work, including using search bars, tabs, and filters to find information efficiently.
Information Literacy and Critical Thinking – Searching effectively goes hand-in-hand with evaluating sources for accuracy, credibility, and relevance, connecting to broader skills in critical thinking online.
Productivity and File Management – Once information is found, organizing it through bookmarks, notes, or cloud storage links this skill to file management and keeping digital resources accessible for future use.
Learn More
Google: Search on Google
Google: Refine Google searches
Quick Overview
Online safety and security is about protecting your personal information, devices, and digital activities from potential threats like hackers, scams, and malware. In today’s connected world, almost everything—from email and social media to banking and shopping—happens online. Understanding the risks and knowing how to respond to them helps learners feel confident and stay safe while navigating digital spaces.
A crucial part of online safety is strong passwords and account protection. Using unique passwords for every account, enabling multi-factor authentication, and changing passwords regularly helps prevent unauthorized access. Password managers can help organize and securely store complex passwords. Additionally, learners should be cautious about sharing personal information, such as birthdates or addresses, online, and avoid entering sensitive data on unfamiliar or unsecure websites.
Safe browsing habits are another key component. Learners should check for “https” in website addresses, avoid suspicious links or pop-ups, and verify the credibility of websites before downloading files or submitting information. Keeping devices and software up to date with the latest security patches reduces vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Using antivirus and anti-malware tools adds an extra layer of protection against threats.
Recognizing scams, phishing, and social engineering is essential for maintaining security online. Emails, messages, or websites that ask for personal information or create a sense of urgency may be attempts to steal sensitive data. Learners should take time to verify sources, avoid clicking on unfamiliar links, and report suspicious activity when appropriate. Awareness and careful attention are often the first line of defense against cyber threats.
Finally, digital citizenship and responsible behavior play an important role in online safety. This includes respecting others’ privacy, understanding ethical use of technology, and practicing good habits when communicating online. Managing privacy settings on social media, apps, and devices allows learners to control who can access their information. By combining technical precautions with thoughtful online behavior, learners can confidently navigate the digital world while minimizing risks to themselves and others.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Internet Savviness – Safe browsing, evaluating websites, and recognizing secure sites reduce exposure to scams, malware, and misinformation.
Passwords & Account Management – Using strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and password managers protects online accounts and sensitive data.
Email & Online Communication – Recognizing phishing emails, avoiding suspicious attachments, and practicing safe messaging maintain security in digital interactions.
Digital Tools for Learning – Understanding security settings in apps, cloud storage, and collaboration platforms ensures that personal and shared data remain safe.
Digital Citizenship – Practicing responsible behavior, respecting others’ privacy, and understanding ethical technology use support overall online safety and security.
Learn More
Cybersecurity Guide: Internet safety resources for students
Department of Education: Digital Literacy and Internet Safety
The University of Utah: 8 simple tips to improve your online safety and security
Quick Overview
A digital footprint is the trail of information you leave behind when using the internet. Every website you visit, social media post you make, email you send, and online purchase you complete contributes to your digital footprint. It can be visible to others, like public posts, or invisible, like data collected by websites and apps. Understanding your digital footprint helps you take control of how your information is shared and perceived online.
There are two main types of digital footprints: active and passive. Active footprints are created when you intentionally share information, such as posting a photo or commenting in a forum. Passive footprints are created automatically, often without your direct input, like websites tracking your activity, search history, or location. Both types of footprints can affect your privacy, reputation, and even opportunities for jobs or education in the future.
Managing your digital footprint involves being mindful of what you share, adjusting privacy settings, and thinking critically about your online behavior. Regularly reviewing your online presence, using secure passwords, and limiting personal information on public platforms are important steps. By taking control of your digital footprint, learners can protect their privacy, maintain a positive online reputation, and navigate the digital world safely and confidently.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Online Safety and Security – Understanding your digital footprint helps protect personal information and avoid risks like identity theft or phishing.
Digital Citizenship – Being mindful of your digital footprint supports ethical behavior, respectful communication, and responsible online presence.
Social Media – Posts, comments, and shared content contribute to your footprint; knowing this encourages careful and thoughtful online interaction.
Privacy Settings & Account Management – Adjusting settings on social media, apps, and devices helps control who sees your digital footprint.
Professional Online Presence – A managed digital footprint can impact opportunities, including job applications, networking, and educational prospects.
Learn More
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security: Digital Footprint
Quick Overview
Evaluating online information is a key digital literacy skill that helps learners determine whether the content they find on the internet is accurate, reliable, and useful. Not all information online is trustworthy; some websites contain outdated data, opinions presented as facts, or even deliberate misinformation. By learning how to assess online sources, learners can make informed decisions, avoid spreading false information, and confidently use digital content for learning, work, or daily life.
A good starting point is checking the source. Reliable information usually comes from credible authors or organizations, such as universities, government agencies, or well-known news outlets. Look for the author’s credentials, the organization’s reputation, and whether the content is reviewed or cited by other trustworthy sources. Being skeptical of unknown websites, blogs, or social media posts is important, especially if they lack clear authorship or references.
Accuracy and objectivity are also critical. Evaluate whether the information is fact-based, supported by evidence, and free from obvious bias. Beware of sensational headlines, clickbait, or overly emotional language, which can indicate an attempt to manipulate the reader rather than inform them. Comparing multiple sources on the same topic helps identify inconsistencies and gives a more balanced view of the information.
Another important factor is timeliness. Some information, such as technology updates, health advice, or news, can become outdated quickly. Check the publication or last update date to ensure the content is current and still relevant. Using up-to-date information is essential, especially when making decisions that impact learning, work, or personal life.
Finally, learners should consider purpose and relevance. Ask why the information exists—is it to inform, persuade, sell a product, or entertain? Understanding the intent helps determine how much weight to give it. Also, make sure the information directly answers your question or meets your learning goal. By combining these strategies—checking sources, evaluating accuracy and bias, verifying timeliness, and assessing purpose—learners can confidently navigate the vast amount of information online.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Internet Savviness – Knowing how to search effectively and critically assess search results is key to finding reliable information online.
Digital Citizenship – Evaluating sources supports responsible sharing and helps prevent the spread of misinformation.
Critical Thinking – Analyzing accuracy, bias, and credibility strengthens reasoning skills and informed decision-making.
Social Media – Understanding how to spot false or misleading content on social platforms protects learners from manipulation.
Research & Learning Strategies – Evaluating information is essential for completing assignments, projects, and personal learning goals accurately.
Learn More
The University of Iowa: Evaluating Online Information
Qualtrics: A Student’s Guide to Evaluating Internet Sources and Information
Georgetown University: Evaluating Internet Resources
Quick Overview
Online transactions refer to buying, selling, or transferring money and services over the internet. They are a convenient way to shop, pay bills, and manage finances without visiting a physical store or bank. While online transactions save time, they also require careful attention to security and accuracy to protect personal and financial information.
To conduct online transactions safely, it’s important to use secure websites and trusted platforms. Look for “https” in the web address, read reviews, and avoid sharing payment information on unknown or suspicious sites. Using credit cards or secure payment services, rather than direct bank transfers, can provide extra protection against fraud. Keeping records of purchases and receipts helps monitor transactions and resolve any issues if they arise.
Another key aspect is protecting personal and financial information. Use strong, unique passwords for accounts, enable multi-factor authentication when available, and avoid storing sensitive information on public or shared devices. Being aware of phishing emails, fake websites, and scams is also critical—always verify the source before entering payment details. By combining safe practices, vigilance, and trusted tools, learners can confidently complete online transactions while minimizing risks.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Online Safety and Security – Protecting personal and financial information during transactions helps prevent fraud and identity theft.
Internet Savviness – Knowing how to identify secure websites, trustworthy platforms, and reliable payment systems is essential for safe transactions.
Digital Tools for Daily Life – Online banking apps, digital wallets, and budgeting software support safe and efficient management of finances.
Critical Thinking – Evaluating offers, spotting scams, and verifying websites require analytical skills to make informed decisions.
Passwords & Account Management – Using strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and secure accounts safeguards financial and personal data during online transactions.
Learn More
Quick Overview
Cloud services refer to online platforms that allow users to store, access, and manage data over the internet instead of on a local computer or device. Popular examples include Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and iCloud. Cloud services make it easier to save files, share documents, and access information from multiple devices, whether at home, school, or work.
One major advantage of cloud services is accessibility. Files stored in the cloud can be opened from a computer, tablet, or smartphone, which makes working remotely or on the go much easier. This is especially useful for collaborative projects, as multiple people can view, edit, and comment on the same document in real time. Cloud storage also reduces the need for physical storage devices like USB drives or external hard drives.
Security and privacy are important considerations when using cloud services. While providers implement measures like encryption and password protection, users should still create strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and be cautious about sharing sensitive files. Understanding permissions—such as who can view, edit, or share a file—is crucial for protecting personal and organizational data.
Another key benefit is backup and recovery. Cloud services automatically save changes and can recover previous versions of files if mistakes occur or devices fail. This reduces the risk of data loss and provides peace of mind for both personal and professional projects. By combining accessibility, security, collaboration, and backup features, cloud services have become an essential tool for digital literacy and everyday computer use.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Digital Tools for Daily Life – Cloud services help manage documents, photos, and personal files efficiently across devices.
Collaboration Tools – Shared cloud documents enable teamwork, real-time editing, and project collaboration online
Online Safety and Security – Understanding permissions, passwords, and multi-factor authentication protects files and personal information in the cloud.
Backup and File Management – Cloud storage provides automatic backups, version history, and reduces reliance on physical storage devices.
Mobile Learning & Accessibility – Cloud services allow learners to access course materials, notes, and assignments from anywhere using smartphones or tablets.
Learn More
Microsoft: What is cloud computing?
Cloud Information Center: Cloud Basics
Geeks for Geeks: Cloud Computing Tutorial
Quick Overview
Digital citizenship is about using technology responsibly, ethically, and safely. It involves understanding how your online behavior affects yourself and others, as well as knowing the rules and expectations for participating in digital communities. Being a good digital citizen helps learners navigate the internet with confidence while respecting the rights and privacy of others.
A key aspect of digital citizenship is responsible online behavior. This includes treating others with respect, avoiding cyberbullying, and being mindful of the language and tone used in emails, forums, or social media posts. Learners should also consider the consequences of their actions, understanding that posts or comments online can have long-lasting effects on their reputation and relationships.
Privacy and security are also central to digital citizenship. Protecting personal information, using strong passwords, adjusting privacy settings, and recognizing phishing attempts are all part of being a responsible digital user. Understanding the importance of digital footprints and how online actions are recorded helps learners make informed choices about what to share.
Another important element is ethical and legal use of digital resources. This includes respecting copyright, giving credit to creators, avoiding plagiarism, and understanding the rules around using images, videos, or software. Practicing ethical behavior ensures learners use technology fairly and legally, while also respecting the work of others.
Finally, digital citizenship encompasses active participation in the digital world. This means engaging thoughtfully in online discussions, contributing positively to communities, and using technology to learn, collaborate, and solve problems. By developing these skills, learners become not just consumers of digital content, but responsible, informed, and empowered participants in the online world.
Connecting Dots
Here are some connection points linking this topic to other digital literacy topics in the website:
Online Safety and Security – Responsible behavior, strong passwords, and privacy settings protect both personal information and others online.
Digital Footprint – Understanding how actions online are recorded encourages mindful sharing and a positive digital reputation.
Online Communication Skills – Respectful and ethical communication is central to participating appropriately in forums, chats, and social media.
Copyright and Intellectual Property – Ethical use of digital content, citing sources, and respecting creators’ rights are part of being a responsible digital citizen.
Critical Thinking – Evaluating online information and recognizing misinformation support ethical and informed participation in digital communities.
Learn More
TeachThought: What Are The Best Examples Of Good Digital Citizenship?
Temple University: Your guide to being a good digital citizen
Q1: What does “net savvy” mean?
A: Being net savvy means having the knowledge and skills to use the internet effectively, safely, and responsibly — from finding reliable information to avoiding online scams.
Q2: How do I know if a website is trustworthy?
A: Check the website’s address (look for “https://”), read about the author or organization, look for recent updates, and compare the information with other reputable sources.
Q3: What is a search engine?
A: A search engine is a tool, like Google or Bing, that helps you find information on the internet by typing in keywords or questions.
Q4: How can I search more effectively online?
A: Use specific keywords, put phrases in quotes (“like this”), and use filters like date range or file type to narrow results.
Q5: What is an algorithm and why does it matter?
A: An algorithm is a set of rules computers use to decide what to show you online. For example, social media algorithms choose which posts appear in your feed based on your activity.
Q6: What is an echo chamber?
A: An echo chamber happens when you mostly see information that matches your beliefs, because algorithms keep showing you similar content. This can limit your perspective.
Q7: Why is it important to recognize misinformation?
A: Misinformation can spread quickly online and lead to bad decisions. Being able to spot false or misleading content helps keep you and others well-informed.
Q8: What should I do if I find suspicious information?
A: Verify it by checking multiple trusted sources, using fact-checking websites, or looking for official statements before sharing it with others.
Q9: What does “digital footprint” mean?
A: Your digital footprint is the trail of data you leave online — including posts, searches, and even the websites you visit. Being aware of it helps you protect your privacy.
Q10: Why should I care about online etiquette?
A: Good online etiquette, also called netiquette, ensures respectful, clear communication and helps build positive communities on the internet.