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IC3 GS6 study sheet · Level 1 · Domain 7

Safety and Security

IC3 Digital Literacy Certification, Global Standard 6 (GS6)

4 objectives · Certiport IC3 Digital Literacy GS6

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Digital security threats are attempts to steal, damage or misuse your devices, accounts and data. This guide names the common threats and their warning signs so you can recognize them.

Every objective and its key skills

  1. 7.1 Describe digital security threats

    Malware is harmful software; types include viruses (attach to files and spread when run), worms (spread across networks by themselves), trojans (pretend to be useful software) and spyware (secretly records your activity).

  2. 7.2 Protect devices and digital content

    Length matters most: aim for at least 12 characters; a passphrase of several random words is long and easy to remember.

    Reset a password right away if you suspect someone knows it, after a data breach at that service, or after signing in on a device you do not trust.

  3. 7.3 Be aware of data-collection technology

    Cookies are small files a site stores in your browser; first-party cookies come from the site you visit, third-party cookies from other companies such as advertisers on that page.

    Profiles can reveal sensitive details such as health interests, location patterns, beliefs or finances.

  4. 7.4 Identify health risks associated with the use of digital technologies

    Excessive or compulsive use of phones, games or social media can crowd out sleep, study, exercise and time with people.

    Digital eye strain: tired, dry or sore eyes and blurred vision; follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet, about 6 metres, away for 20 seconds).

Common pitfalls

  • Using 'virus' for every kind of malware; a virus is one type.
  • Thinking a short password full of symbols beats a long passphrase; length adds more strength.
  • Believing private or Incognito mode hides your activity from websites, employers or internet providers.
  • Thinking health risks are only physical; mental health effects are just as real.

ExamDragon, examdragon.com/ic3. Independent exam preparation, not affiliated with or endorsed by Certiport or Pearson VUE; written in our own words from Certiport's IC3 Digital Literacy GS6 objectives.