Digital Literacy & Online Safety

Stay Smart & Safe Online

Stay Smart & Safe Online The internet brings fun, learning, and connection — but it can also have risks. NICTA wants every Papua New Guinean to enjoy digital life safely.

Here you’ll find easy tips, guides, and tools to:

  • Protect yourself and your family
  • Spot scams and harmful content
  • Use social media, apps, and devices wisely

You’re not alone — we’re here to help!

Section 1: Why Digital Safety Matters

In PNG, more people are going online every day — for family chats, school, business, banking, and fun. Digital literacy means knowing how to use technology safely, spot dangers, and protect your information.

Good online safety helps prevent:

  • Scams and fraud
  • Bullying or harassment
  • Sharing too much personal info
  • Harmful content (especially for children)

Start with these simple tips and build safe habits!

Section 2: Top Online Safety Tips

Everyday Tips to Stay Safe (Use simple icons: shield, lock, eye, family)

Use strong, unique passwords — never share them.

Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.

Think before you click — don’t open strange links or attachments.

Be careful what you share — avoid posting personal details or location.

Check app permissions — only allow what’s needed.

Talk to children about online safety — set rules together.

Report suspicious messages or content to your provider or NICTA.

Keep your phone and apps updated — updates fix security holes.

Section 3: Guides for Parents & Families (Accordion / Expandable Cards)

Helpful Guides (Expandable sections – click to reveal)

For Parents & Carers

  • Talk openly with your children about what they do online.
  • Use parental controls on devices and apps.
  • Set screen time limits and family rules.
  • Teach them not to share passwords or personal photos.
  • Watch for signs of cyberbullying or distress.

For Young People

  • You have the right to feel safe online.
  • Block/report anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
  • Don’t meet strangers from the internet alone.
  • Think twice before posting — it stays online forever.

For Everyone

  • Avoid phishing — never give bank details to unknown callers/SMS.
  • Use privacy settings on social media.
  • Be cautious with public Wi-Fi — avoid banking or sensitive logins.

Section 4: Common Online Risks & How to Avoid Them (Card Grid)

Watch Out For These Risks (4–6 cards with icon, short description, and “How to Protect Yourself” bullet)

  1. Scams & Fraud Fake messages/calls asking for money or details. → Never share OTPs, bank info, or click suspicious links. Report to your provider.
  2. Cyberbullying & Harassment Hurtful messages, threats, or sharing private photos. → Block/report the person. Save evidence. Tell a trusted adult or NICTA.
  3. Phishing & Fake Websites Emails/SMS pretending to be banks or companies. → Check URLs carefully. Don’t enter details on unknown sites.
  4. Harmful Content Violent, adult, or misleading material. → Use filters. Report to platforms or NICTA.
  5. Data Privacy Risks Apps collecting too much info. → Review permissions. Use privacy tools.

Section 5: Upcoming Events & Awareness Days (Calendar-Style Box)

Join Us for Online Safety Events

  • Safer Internet Day Tuesday, 10 February 2026 Theme: Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring safe & responsible use of AI → Global day to promote positive internet use, especially for children & young people.
  • National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Entire month of October 2026 → Annual focus on protecting personal data, spotting cyber threats, and building secure habits.

NICTA Events

  • Watch for local workshops, school talks, and awareness campaigns — we’ll post dates here!
  • Follow us on [social links] for updates.

Section 6: Free Resources Hub (Grid of Cards / Download Links)

Downloadable Guides, Infographics & Videos (Card layout – thumbnail image + title + download button)

  • Online Safety Tips for Families (Infographic – PNG context) [Download PDF]
  • How to Spot Scams (Simple poster) [Download]
  • Parental Controls Guide (Step-by-step) [Download]
  • Safe Social Media Use (Video – short animation) [Watch Now]
  • Protect Your Privacy Online (Checklist) [Download]
  • Cyberbullying: What to Do (Quick guide) [Download]

Related Pages:

  • Your Rights & Responsibilities
  • Complaints Handling & Redress
  • Submit a Complaint