A simple course outline for beginners
This course teaches you how to keep your personal computer safe from viruses, hackers, and other online dangers. You will learn simple, everyday steps to protect your files, your privacy, and your device.
No prior knowledge is needed. If you can use a computer, you can learn to secure it.
Course Duration: 9 modules – self‑paced (about 1–2 hours per module)
Certificate: Certificate of completion after final quiz and project
Start protecting your PC today – one simple step at a time.
Welcome to Module One of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
Have you ever thought about how you keep your house safe? You lock the door. You close the windows. You do not let strangers in. You do these things to protect your family and your things.
Your personal computer (PC) is like a small house. It holds your photos, your schoolwork, your messages, and your secrets. It needs protection too.
PC security is the practice of keeping your computer safe from bad people and bad software. Bad people are called hackers. Bad software is called malware. Both can hurt your computer and steal your information.
Imagine you have a big box of your favourite things. You would not leave that box open on the street. You would keep it in a safe place. Your PC is that box. PC security helps you keep it safe.
In this module, you will learn what PC security is and why it matters. You will learn about the different dangers that can harm your computer. You will learn simple things you can do to stay safe.
You do not need to be a computer expert. You just need to be curious and ready to learn. By the end of this module, you will know how to protect your PC like a pro.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the busy city of Lagos, Nigeria, there lived a young girl named Ada. Ada was 13 years old. She loved her laptop more than anything else. She used it for school, for games, and for talking to her friends.
One Saturday morning, Ada's father, Mr. Okafor, called her to the living room.
"Ada," he said, "I want to show you something."
He took her to the front door of their house. He showed her the lock.
"What do you see?" he asked.
"A lock," Ada said.
"Yes," Mr. Okafor said. "Why do we have a lock on the door?"
"To keep bad people out," Ada replied.
"Exactly," her father said. "We lock the door to keep our family safe. We close the windows at night. We do not open the door for strangers. These are simple things, but they keep us safe."
Ada nodded. She understood.
Then Mr. Okafor asked, "What do you do to keep your laptop safe?"
Ada thought for a moment. "I... I don't know," she said. "I just use it."
Mr. Okafor smiled. "Your laptop is like this house. It holds your photos, your schoolwork, and your private information. It needs a lock too. It needs PC security."
Ada was surprised. She had never thought about her laptop that way.
"What kind of lock does a laptop need?" she asked.
"Many kinds," her father said. "A strong password is like a lock. Antivirus software is like a guard. Being careful about what you click is like not opening the door for strangers."
Ada was excited. She wanted to learn more. She wanted to protect her laptop just like she protected her home.
That day, Ada began her journey into PC security. And you are about to begin yours too.
PC security is the practice of keeping your personal computer safe from bad people and bad software. It is all the things you do to protect your computer, your files, and your privacy.
Your computer holds important things. It has your photos. It has your schoolwork. It has your messages. It might have your parents' bank details. If your computer is not safe, all these things can be stolen or destroyed.
Think of your computer as a treasure chest. The treasure is your data: photos, files, and personal information. PC security is the lock on the chest. It keeps the treasure safe.
A hospital keeps patient records on computers. If the computers are not secure, hackers can steal the records. PC security protects the records.
Your school keeps student grades on computers. If the computers are not secure, someone can change the grades. PC security protects the grades.
Your family keeps photos and important documents on a home computer. If the computer is not secure, these files can be lost or stolen. PC security protects them.
A Nigerian bank keeps customer money information on computers. If the computers are not secure, fraudsters can steal money. PC security protects the money.
PC Security
|
V
+-------------------+
| Your Computer |
| (Treasure Chest) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| PC Security |
| (The Lock) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Your Data is |
| Safe |
+-------------------+
PC security is keeping your computer safe from bad people and bad software. It protects your files, your privacy, and your personal information.
PC security matters because your computer holds valuable things. It also connects to the internet, where dangers exist.
If your computer is not secure, you can lose your files. You can lose your money. You can lose your privacy. You can even lose your friends' trust if their information is stolen from your computer.
Imagine you leave your house door open. Anyone can walk in and take your things. That is what happens when your computer is not secure. Anyone can walk in and take your data.
A company lost millions of naira because a hacker stole customer data. The company did not have good PC security.
A school lost student records because a virus deleted them. The school did not have good PC security.
A family lost all their holiday photos because a virus deleted them. The family did not have good PC security.
A Nigerian online store lost customer trust because hackers stole credit card information. The store did not have good PC security.
Why PC Security Matters
|
V
+-------------------+
| No PC Security |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Can |
| Enter |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data, |
| Money, Privacy |
+-------------------+
PC security matters because your computer holds valuable things. Without security, you can lose your files, money, and privacy.
A hacker is a person who tries to break into computers without permission. They want to steal information, cause damage, or make money.
Hackers are real. They are everywhere. They can be far away, in another country. They use the internet to find weak computers.
Imagine a thief walking around your neighbourhood, checking doors to see which ones are unlocked. A hacker does the same thing online. They check computers to see which ones have weak security.
A hacker broke into a bank's computer system and stole money. The bank had a weak password on an important account.
A hacker broke into a school's website and changed the exam results. The school had not updated its software.
A hacker guessed a family's Wi-Fi password and used their internet for bad things.
A Nigerian fraudster sent fake emails to bank customers, pretending to be the bank. He stole their passwords and took their money.
Hackers
|
V
+-------------------+
| Bad People |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Look for Weak |
| Computers |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Steal, Damage, |
| or Make Money |
+-------------------+
A hacker is a person who tries to break into computers without permission. They want to steal information, cause damage, or make money.
Malware is bad software. It is a program that harms your computer. The word "malware" comes from "malicious software."
Malware can delete your files. It can slow down your computer. It can steal your information. It can even spy on you.
Imagine you have a robot that is supposed to help you clean your room. But someone changed its program. Now the robot makes a mess instead of cleaning. That is malware. It is software that does bad things instead of good things.
A hospital's computers were infected with malware. The malware locked all the patient records and demanded money to unlock them.
A school's computers were infected with malware. The malware deleted all the exam questions.
A family's computer was infected with malware. The malware showed pop-up ads all the time.
A Nigerian business lost important files because of malware. The malware came from a fake email attachment.
Malware
|
V
+-------------------+
| Bad Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Harms Your |
| Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Deletes, Steals, |
| Spies |
+-------------------+
Malware is bad software. It harms your computer by deleting files, stealing information, or spying on you.
A virus is a type of malware. It attaches itself to other files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
Viruses can spread from computer to computer. They can destroy your files. They can make your computer stop working.
Imagine you have a cold. You sneeze, and your friend gets the cold. Then your friend sneezes, and another friend gets it. A computer virus is like a cold. It spreads from computer to computer.
A virus spread through a company's network. It deleted all the files on every computer.
A virus spread through the school computer lab. It made all the computers slow.
A virus spread from a USB drive to a family computer. It deleted all the music files.
A virus spread through a Nigerian cybercafe. It stole customers' passwords.
Virus
|
V
+-------------------+
| Attaches to File |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Open File |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Virus Runs and |
| Spreads |
+-------------------+
A virus is a type of malware that attaches to files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
A password is a secret word or phrase that you use to lock your computer or your accounts. It is like a key to your house.
Passwords keep bad people out. If your password is weak, hackers can guess it. If your password is strong, hackers cannot get in.
Imagine you have a diary with all your secrets. You put a lock on it. The password is the key to the lock. If the key is easy to find, anyone can open the diary. If the key is hidden, only you can open it.
A bank uses strong passwords to protect customer accounts. Hackers cannot guess the passwords.
Your school uses passwords to protect student grades. Only teachers can see the grades.
Your family uses a password to protect the Wi-Fi. Only family members can use the internet.
A Nigerian bank tells customers to use strong passwords. This protects their money from fraudsters.
Passwords
|
V
+-------------------+
| Secret Word |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Locks Your |
| Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Keeps Hackers |
| Out |
+-------------------+
A password is a secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts. Strong passwords keep hackers out.
A strong password is hard to guess. A weak password is easy to guess.
If your password is weak, hackers can guess it quickly. If your password is strong, it will take them many years to guess it.
Here is what makes a password strong:
Here is what makes a password weak:
A strong password: "MyD0g!sB1g&Happy!"
A weak password: "password123"
A strong password: "Sch00l!sFun2024#"
A weak password: "school"
A strong password: "Fam1ly@Home!2024"
A weak password: "home123"
A strong password: "N1ger1a!L0ve#"
A weak password: "nigeria"
Strong vs Weak Passwords
|
V
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| STRONG | | WEAK |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| - Long | | - Short |
| - Mixed case | | - Common word |
| - Numbers | | - Name |
| - Symbols | | - Birthday |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| Hackers cannot | | Hackers can |
| guess | | guess quickly |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
Strong passwords are long, mixed, and include numbers and symbols. Weak passwords are short, common, and easy to guess.
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send you a fake email or message. They try to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Phishing is one of the most common ways hackers get into computers. They trick you into opening the door for them.
Imagine a stranger knocks on your door. He says he is a police officer. He says there is an emergency and you must let him in. But he is not a police officer. He is a thief. Phishing is like that. The hacker pretends to be someone you trust.
A hacker sends an email that looks like it is from a bank. The email says, "Your account is blocked. Click here to fix it." The link takes you to a fake website that steals your password.
A hacker sends an email that looks like it is from your school. The email says, "Click here to see your exam results." The link steals your password.
A hacker sends a text message that looks like it is from your parents. The message says, "Send me your password." The hacker is tricking you.
A fraudster sends an email that looks like it is from a Nigerian bank. The email says, "Your account has a problem. Send your OTP to fix it." The fraudster steals the money.
Phishing
|
V
+-------------------+
| Fake Email |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Looks Real |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Click Link |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data |
+-------------------+
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Spotting phishing means noticing when an email or message is fake. It means being careful.
If you can spot phishing, you can avoid it. You can protect your computer and your money.
Here are signs of phishing:
An email says, "You won 1 million naira! Click here to claim." This is phishing. You did not win anything.
An email says, "Your exam results are ready. Click here." But the email address is not from your school. This is phishing.
A text says, "Your package is delayed. Click here to track." But you did not order anything. This is phishing.
A text says, "Your bank account is blocked. Send your PIN to unblock." This is phishing. Real banks never ask for your PIN.
Spotting Phishing
|
V
+-------------------+
| Asks for Password|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Says "Urgent" |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Has Mistakes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Click! |
+-------------------+
You can spot phishing by looking for signs like requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses. Do not click on suspicious links.
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
Antivirus finds and removes malware. It stops viruses from spreading. It keeps your computer safe.
Imagine you have a guard at the gate of your house. The guard checks everyone who comes in. If someone looks dangerous, the guard stops them. Antivirus is like that guard. It checks every file and stops the bad ones.
A company uses antivirus on all its computers. The antivirus stops thousands of viruses every month.
Your school uses antivirus on the computer lab computers. It stops viruses from spreading.
Your family uses antivirus on the home computer. It keeps the computer safe.
A Nigerian bank uses antivirus on all staff computers. It stops malware from stealing customer data.
Antivirus
|
V
+-------------------+
| Software Guard |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Checks Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stops Bad Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Stays |
| Safe |
+-------------------+
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
A firewall stops hackers from entering your computer. It also stops malware from sending your information out.
Imagine a wall around your house. The wall has a gate. The gate only opens for people you trust. A firewall is like that wall. It only lets safe things in and out.
A bank uses a firewall to protect its network. The firewall blocks millions of bad connections every day.
Your school uses a firewall to protect its computers. It blocks students from visiting bad websites.
Your family uses a firewall on the home Wi-Fi. It blocks hackers from entering.
A Nigerian company uses a firewall to protect its data. It blocks fraudsters from entering the network.
Firewall
|
V
+-------------------+
| The Wall |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Blocks Bad |
| Connections |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Lets Good |
| Connections In |
+-------------------+
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
Updates are new versions of software. They fix problems and add new features. They also fix security holes.
Hackers look for old software with security holes. Updates close these holes. If you do not update, hackers can get in.
Imagine you have a hole in your roof. When it rains, water comes in. You patch the hole. That is what updates do. They patch the holes in your software.
A company did not update its software. A hacker used an old hole to break in and steal data.
Your school updates its computers every month. This keeps them safe from viruses.
Your family updates the home computer every week. This keeps it safe.
A Nigerian bank updates its software regularly. This stops fraudsters from using old security holes.
Updates
|
V
+-------------------+
| Old Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Has Holes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Fixes |
| Holes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Safe |
+-------------------+
Updates are new versions of software that fix problems and security holes. Updating your computer keeps it safe from hackers.
A backup is a copy of your files. You keep the copy in a safe place. If something happens to your files, you can use the backup.
If a virus deletes your files, or if your computer breaks, you can restore your files from the backup. Backups save you from losing everything.
Imagine you have a favourite toy. You buy a second one and keep it in a safe place. If you lose the first one, you still have the second one. A backup is like that second toy.
A company had a backup of all its files. When a virus deleted everything, they restored the files from the backup.
Your school has a backup of all student grades. When a computer broke, they restored the grades from the backup.
Your family has a backup of all photos. When the computer broke, they restored the photos from the backup.
A Nigerian business has a backup of all customer data. When a hacker attacked, they restored the data from the backup.
Backups
|
V
+-------------------+
| Original Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Copy (Backup) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| If Files Lost, |
| Use Backup |
+-------------------+
A backup is a copy of your files. It saves you from losing everything if something happens to your computer.
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. It means avoiding bad websites and bad links.
The internet has many traps. Bad websites can give your computer a virus. Bad links can steal your password. Safe browsing keeps you safe.
Imagine you are walking in a new city. You do not go into dark alleys. You do not talk to strangers. You stay in safe places. Safe browsing is the same. You stay on safe websites. You do not click on strange links.
A person clicked on a bad link. The link took them to a fake website. The website stole their password.
A student visited a bad website. The website gave the school computer a virus.
A family member clicked on a pop-up ad. The ad downloaded malware to the computer.
A Nigerian internet user clicked on a fake link in an email. The link stole their bank password.
Safe Browsing
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stay on Safe |
| Websites |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Click |
| Strange Links |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Avoid Pop-Ups |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stay Safe |
+-------------------+
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. Avoid bad websites and strange links. Stay on safe websites.
Everyday habits are the simple things you do every day to keep your computer safe.
PC security is not just about software. It is also about your habits. Good habits keep you safe.
Here are good everyday habits:
A person locked their computer when they went for lunch. A thief could not access their files.
A student logged out of their school account. Another student could not use their account.
A family member did not share the Wi-Fi password with strangers. The Wi-Fi stayed safe.
A Nigerian bank worker locked their computer when they left their desk. A fraudster could not access customer data.
Everyday Habits
|
V
+-------------------+
| Lock Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Strong Passwords |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| No Strange Links |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Backup Files |
+-------------------+
Everyday habits like locking your computer, using strong passwords, and avoiding strange links keep your computer safe.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| PC Security | Keeping your computer safe from bad people and bad software |
| Hacker | A person who tries to break into computers without permission |
| Malware | Bad software that harms your computer |
| Virus | A type of malware that attaches to files and spreads |
| Password | A secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts |
| Phishing | When a bad person pretends to be someone you trust to trick you |
| Antivirus | Software that protects your computer from viruses and malware |
| Firewall | Software or hardware that blocks bad things from entering your computer |
| Update | A new version of software that fixes problems |
| Backup | A copy of your files kept in a safe place |
| Safe Browsing | Being careful when you use the internet |
| Data | Information |
| OTP | One Time Password - a special code for one use |
| USB Drive | A small device for storing files |
| Pop-Up | A window that appears suddenly on your screen |
A bank in Lagos uses strong passwords, antivirus, firewalls, and backups. They train staff about phishing. They update software regularly. Their computers are safe.
A school in Abuja uses antivirus on all computers. They teach students about strong passwords. They back up student grades. Their computers are safe.
A family in Port Harcourt uses a strong Wi-Fi password. They update their computer. They back up their photos. Their computer is safe.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank use PC security to protect customer money. They use strong passwords, antivirus, firewalls, and backups.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel use PC security to protect customer data. They train staff and update software.
NITDA uses PC security to protect government websites. They use firewalls and antivirus.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos use PC security to protect student data. They train students and update computers.
Companies like Jumia and Konga use PC security to protect customer data. They use strong passwords and backups.
In a video game, you protect your character with armor. PC security is like armor for your computer.
In football, the goalkeeper protects the goal. Antivirus is like a goalkeeper for your computer.
On social media, you use a password to protect your account. PC security is like that password.
In school, you lock your locker to protect your books. PC security is like that lock.
You lock your door to keep thieves out. You lock your computer to keep hackers out.
You wear a seatbelt to stay safe in a car. You use antivirus to stay safe online.
You look both ways before crossing the road. You check links before clicking them.
You wash your hands to stay healthy. You update software to keep your computer healthy.
You keep a spare key in case you lose yours. You keep a backup in case you lose your files.
+-------------------+
| Your Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Strong Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Antivirus |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Firewall |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Updates |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Backups |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Safe Browsing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Safe |
+-------------------+
Weak Medium Strong
| | |
V V V
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| "123456" | | "Password1" | | "MyD0g!sB1g& |
| | | | | Happy!" |
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| | |
V V V
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Guessed in | | Guessed in | | Guessed in |
| 1 second | | 1 day | | Millions of |
| | | | | years |
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Security Measure | Done? |
|---|---|
| Strong password on computer | Yes / No |
| Antivirus installed and updated | Yes / No |
| Firewall turned on | Yes / No |
| Software updated | Yes / No |
| Files backed up | Yes / No |
| Know how to spot phishing | Yes / No |
| Lock computer when away | Yes / No |
| Feature | Strong Password | Weak Password |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 12+ characters | Less than 8 characters |
| Letters | Capital and small | All small or all capital |
| Numbers | Yes | No |
| Symbols | Yes | No |
| Personal Info | No | Name, birthday |
| Guess Time | Millions of years | Seconds or minutes |
| Feature | Hacker | Malware |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | A person | Software |
| What does it do? | Breaks into computers | Harms computers |
| How does it enter? | Uses weaknesses | Attaches to files |
| How to stop it? | Strong passwords, firewalls | Antivirus, updates |
PC security is keeping your computer safe from bad people and bad software. It protects your files, privacy, and personal information.
PC security matters because your computer holds valuable things. Without security, you can lose your files, money, and privacy.
A hacker is a person who tries to break into computers. They want to steal, damage, or make money.
Malware is bad software. It harms your computer by deleting files, stealing information, or spying on you.
A virus is a type of malware that attaches to files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
A password is a secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts. Strong passwords keep hackers out.
Strong passwords are long, mixed, and include numbers and symbols. Weak passwords are short, common, and easy to guess.
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you into giving them your password or money.
You can spot phishing by looking for signs like requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses. Do not click on suspicious links.
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
Updates are new versions of software that fix problems and security holes. Updating your computer keeps it safe from hackers.
A backup is a copy of your files. It saves you from losing everything if something happens to your computer.
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. Avoid bad websites and strange links. Stay on safe websites.
Everyday habits like locking your computer, using strong passwords, and avoiding strange links keep your computer safe.
Congratulations! You have completed Module One: PC Security Fundamentals.
In this module, you learned that PC security is keeping your computer safe from bad people and bad software. You learned that it protects your files, privacy, and personal information.
You learned about hackers. They are people who try to break into computers. You learned about malware. It is bad software that harms your computer.
You learned about viruses. They are a type of malware that attaches to files and spreads.
You learned about passwords. Strong passwords keep hackers out. Weak passwords are easy to guess.
You learned about phishing. It is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust to trick you.
You learned how to spot phishing. Look for requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses.
You learned about antivirus. It is software that protects your computer. It is like a guard.
You learned about firewalls. They block bad connections. They are like a wall around your computer.
You learned about updates. They fix security holes. They keep your computer safe.
You learned about backups. They are copies of your files. They save you from losing everything.
You learned about safe browsing. It means being careful online.
You learned about everyday habits. They keep your computer safe.
You are now a PC Security Fundamentals expert in training!
PC security is keeping your computer safe from bad people and bad software. It protects your files, privacy, and personal information.
PC security is important because your computer holds valuable things. Without security, you can lose your files, money, and privacy.
A hacker is a person who tries to break into computers without permission. They want to steal, damage, or make money.
Malware is bad software that harms your computer. It can delete files, steal information, or spy on you.
A virus is a type of malware that attaches to files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
A strong password is long (12+ characters), mixed (capital and small letters), and includes numbers and symbols. It does not use personal information.
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
A backup is a copy of your files. It saves you from losing everything if something happens to your computer.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. PC Security | A. A person who tries to break into computers |
| 2. Hacker | B. Bad software that harms your computer |
| 3. Malware | C. Keeping your computer safe |
| 4. Virus | D. A secret word or phrase that locks your computer |
| 5. Password | E. When a bad person pretends to be someone you trust |
| 6. Phishing | F. A type of malware that attaches to files and spreads |
| 7. Antivirus | G. A copy of your files kept in a safe place |
| 8. Firewall | H. Software that protects your computer from viruses |
| 9. Backup | I. Software or hardware that blocks bad connections |
Answers: 1-C, 2-A, 3-B, 4-F, 5-D, 6-E, 7-H, 8-I, 9-G
You receive an email that says, "Your bank account is blocked. Click here to fix it." The email address looks strange.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not click the link. This is phishing. Delete the email. Call your bank if you are worried.
Your friend uses the password "123456" for all their accounts.
Question: What should you tell your friend?
Answer: Tell your friend that "123456" is a weak password. Hackers can guess it in one second. Your friend should use a strong password and a different one for each account.
Your computer is very slow. It shows pop-up ads all the time.
Question: What might be wrong?
Answer: Your computer might have malware. You should run an antivirus scan. You should also update your software.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class protects their computers.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Two, you will learn about Passwords and Authentication.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Two, think about these questions:
See you in Module Two!
End of Module One
Welcome to Module Two of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing. You learned that your computer is like a treasure chest that needs protection.
Now, in Module Two, you are going to learn about passwords and authentication.
What is a password?
A password is a secret word or phrase that you use to lock your computer or your accounts. It is like a key to your house. Only you should have the key.
What is authentication?
Authentication is the process of proving that you are who you say you are. When you type your password, the computer checks it. If the password is correct, the computer knows it is really you. That is authentication.
Imagine you are going to a party. There is a guard at the door. The guard asks for your name. You say your name. The guard checks the list. If your name is on the list, the guard lets you in. That is authentication. The computer is the guard. Your password is your name on the list.
Passwords and authentication are very important. They are the first line of defence for your computer and your accounts. If your password is weak, hackers can guess it. If your password is strong, hackers cannot get in.
In this module, you will learn how to create strong passwords. You will learn how to keep them safe. You will learn about two-factor authentication. You will learn about password managers. You will learn how to protect your accounts.
By the end of this module, you will be a password expert. You will know how to keep hackers out of your computer and your accounts.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Lagos, Nigeria, there lived a young girl named Ada. Ada was 13 years old. She loved writing in her diary. She wrote about her friends, her school, and her dreams.
Ada kept her diary in a small box under her bed. The box had a lock. Only Ada had the key.
One day, Ada's little brother, Chidi, found the key. He opened the box and read the diary. He laughed at what Ada had written. Ada was very upset.
"How did you get my key?" Ada asked.
"I found it on the table," Chidi said. "You left it there."
Ada learned a lesson. She had left her key in a place where anyone could find it. Her secret was no longer safe.
That evening, Ada's father, Mr. Okafor, saw that she was sad.
"What is wrong?" he asked.
Ada told him what happened. Mr. Okafor nodded.
"Ada," he said, "this is a good lesson. Your diary key is like a password. If you leave your password where anyone can find it, your secrets are not safe."
Ada thought about this. "But how do I keep my password safe?" she asked.
"First," her father said, "make your password hard to guess. Do not use your name or birthday. Second, do not write it down where people can see it. Third, use a different password for different things. And fourth, never share your password with anyone."
Ada nodded. She understood. She decided to create a new password for her diary box. She made it long and mixed with numbers and symbols. She kept it in her memory, not on paper. She did not share it with anyone. Her secrets were safe again.
That night, Ada thought about her computer. She used passwords for her email, her social media, and her school account. She decided to make all of them strong. She decided to keep them safe.
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
A password is a secret word or phrase that you use to lock your computer or your accounts. It is like a key. Only you should have the key.
Passwords keep bad people out. If your password is strong, hackers cannot get in. If your password is weak, hackers can steal your information.
Think about your school locker. You have a lock. You have a key or a combination. Only you know the combination. If someone else knows it, they can open your locker and take your things. A password is like that combination.
A bank uses passwords to protect customer accounts. Only the customer knows the password. The bank uses the password to check that it is really the customer.
Your school uses passwords to protect student grades. Only teachers and students know their passwords. This keeps grades safe.
Your family uses a password to protect the Wi-Fi. Only family members know the password. This keeps strangers from using your internet.
A Nigerian bank uses passwords to protect customer money. Customers use passwords for online banking. This keeps fraudsters out.
What is a Password?
|
V
+-------------------+
| Secret Word |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Locks Your |
| Computer/Account |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Only You Know It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Keeps Bad People |
| Out |
+-------------------+
A password is a secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts. It is like a key. Only you should have the key.
Passwords matter because they protect your personal information. They keep your money, your messages, and your private data safe.
If your password is weak, hackers can guess it. They can read your emails. They can steal your money. They can pretend to be you. Passwords keep you safe.
Imagine you have a secret. You tell only one friend. That friend is your password. If the wrong person finds out, your secret is no longer safe. Passwords keep your secrets safe.
A person used the same password for their email and their bank account. A hacker guessed the password and stole all their money.
A student shared their password with a friend. The friend changed the student's grades. The student was very upset.
A family used a weak Wi-Fi password. A neighbour guessed it and used their internet for free.
A Nigerian bank customer used "123456" as their password. A fraudster guessed it and stole money from their account.
Why Passwords Matter
|
V
+-------------------+
| Protect Your |
| Information |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Keep Money Safe |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Keep Messages |
| Private |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Keep You Safe |
+-------------------+
Passwords matter because they protect your personal information. They keep your money, messages, and private data safe.
Authentication is the process of proving that you are who you say you are. When you type your password, the computer checks it. If the password is correct, the computer knows it is really you.
Authentication keeps bad people out. It makes sure that only you can access your accounts. Without authentication, anyone could pretend to be you.
Imagine you are going to a party. There is a guard at the door. The guard asks for your name. You say your name. The guard checks the list. If your name is on the list, the guard lets you in. That is authentication.
A bank uses authentication to check that it is really you. When you call the bank, they ask for your password and a secret question. This is authentication.
Your school uses authentication to check that it is really you. When you log in to the school computer, you type your username and password. This is authentication.
Your family uses authentication to check that it is really you. When you log in to the family computer, you type your password. This is authentication.
A Nigerian bank uses authentication to check that it is really you. When you use online banking, you type your password and an OTP. This is authentication.
Authentication
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Say Who |
| You Are |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Checks |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| If Correct, |
| You Are Let In |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| If Wrong, |
| You Are Blocked |
+-------------------+
Authentication is the process of proving that you are who you say you are. It keeps bad people out of your accounts.
There are different types of authentication. Each type uses a different way to prove who you are.
Knowing the types of authentication helps you choose the best one for your accounts.
Here are the main types of authentication:
| Type | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Something You Know | A secret only you know | Password, PIN, secret question |
| Something You Have | A physical object you have | Phone, security token, smart card |
| Something You Are | A part of your body | Fingerprint, face, eye scan |
| Somewhere You Are | Your location | GPS location, IP address |
A bank uses all four types. You type a password (something you know). You use a token (something you have). You use a fingerprint (something you are). The bank checks your location (somewhere you are).
Your school uses passwords (something you know). Some schools use ID cards (something you have). Some schools use fingerprint scanners (something you are).
Your family uses a Wi-Fi password (something you know). Your phone uses a fingerprint (something you are).
A Nigerian bank uses passwords (something you know), tokens (something you have), and fingerprints (something you are).
Types of Authentication
|
V
+-------------------+
| Something You |
| Know (Password) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Something You |
| Have (Phone) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Something You |
| Are (Fingerprint)|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Somewhere You |
| Are (Location) |
+-------------------+
There are four types of authentication: something you know, something you have, something you are, and somewhere you are.
A strong password is hard to guess. A weak password is easy to guess.
If your password is weak, hackers can guess it quickly. If your password is strong, it will take them many years to guess it.
Here is what makes a password strong:
Here is what makes a password weak:
A strong password: "MyD0g!sB1g&Happy!"
A weak password: "password123"
A strong password: "Sch00l!sFun2024#"
A weak password: "school"
A strong password: "Fam1ly@Home!2024"
A weak password: "home123"
A strong password: "N1ger1a!L0ve#"
A weak password: "nigeria"
Strong vs Weak Passwords
|
V
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| STRONG | | WEAK |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| - Long | | - Short |
| - Mixed case | | - Common word |
| - Numbers | | - Name |
| - Symbols | | - Birthday |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| Hackers cannot | | Hackers can |
| guess | | guess quickly |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
Strong passwords are long, mixed, and include numbers and symbols. Weak passwords are short, common, and easy to guess.
Creating a strong password means making a password that is hard to guess but easy for you to remember.
If you know how to create strong passwords, you can protect all your accounts.
Here is a simple way to create a strong password:
This password is long, mixed, and has numbers and symbols. It is strong.
A person uses the sentence "I love to eat jollof rice!" to create the password "Il2EjR!2024".
A student uses the sentence "My school is the best!" to create the password "MsItB!2024".
A family uses the sentence "Our home is safe and happy!" to create the password "OhIsAh!2024".
A Nigerian uses the sentence "Nigeria is a great country!" to create the password "NiAgC!2024".
Creating a Strong Password
|
V
+-------------------+
| Think of a |
| Sentence |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Take First |
| Letters |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Add Numbers and |
| Symbols |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Mix Capital and |
| Small Letters |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Strong Password |
+-------------------+
To create a strong password, think of a sentence, take the first letters, add numbers and symbols, and mix capital and small letters.
Password mistakes are things people do that make their passwords weak or unsafe.
If you know the mistakes, you can avoid them. You can keep your accounts safe.
Here are common password mistakes:
| Mistake | Why It Is Bad |
|---|---|
| Using "password" or "123456" | These are the first passwords hackers try |
| Using your name or birthday | Hackers can find this information |
| Using the same password everywhere | If one is stolen, all are stolen |
| Writing your password on paper | Someone can find the paper |
| Sharing your password with friends | Friends can accidentally leak it |
| Using short passwords | Short passwords are easy to guess |
| Using common words | Hackers have lists of common words |
A person used "password" as their password. A hacker guessed it in one second.
A student used their birthday as their password. A friend guessed it and changed their grades.
A family used "home123" as their Wi-Fi password. A neighbour guessed it and used their internet.
A Nigerian bank customer used "nigeria" as their password. A fraudster guessed it and stole money.
Password Mistakes
|
V
+-------------------+
| Weak Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Guess It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data |
+-------------------+
Common password mistakes include using common words, using personal information, using the same password everywhere, and sharing passwords. Avoid these mistakes.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security. It means you need two things to log in: something you know (your password) and something you have (your phone or a code).
2FA makes it much harder for hackers to get in. Even if they steal your password, they still need your phone or code.
Imagine you have a safe with two locks. You need two keys to open it. One key is your password. The other key is your phone. A hacker might steal one key, but they still cannot open the safe without the second key.
A bank uses 2FA. You type your password. Then the bank sends a code to your phone. You type the code. Only then can you log in.
Your school uses 2FA for teacher accounts. Teachers type their password and then a code from their phone.
Your family uses 2FA for email accounts. You type your password and then a code from your phone.
A Nigerian bank uses 2FA for online banking. You type your password and then an OTP sent to your phone.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
|
V
+-------------------+
| Step 1: Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Step 2: Code |
| from Phone |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Are Logged |
| In |
+-------------------+
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security. It means you need two things to log in: your password and something you have, like your phone.
There are different types of 2FA. Each type uses a different second factor.
Knowing the types helps you choose the best 2FA for your accounts.
Here are the main types of 2FA:
| Type | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| SMS Code | A code sent to your phone by text message | Bank sends OTP by SMS |
| Authenticator App | An app that generates codes | Google Authenticator, Authy |
| Hardware Token | A small device that generates codes | RSA SecurID token |
| Biometrics | Your fingerprint or face | Fingerprint scanner on phone |
| Email Code | A code sent to your email | Some websites send codes by email |
A bank uses SMS codes. You type your password and then the code sent to your phone.
Your school uses authenticator apps. Teachers type their password and then a code from the app.
Your family uses email codes. You type your password and then a code sent to your email.
A Nigerian bank uses SMS codes. You type your password and then the OTP sent to your phone.
Types of 2FA
|
V
+-------------------+
| SMS Code |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Authenticator App|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hardware Token |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Biometrics |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Email Code |
+-------------------+
Types of 2FA include SMS codes, authenticator apps, hardware tokens, biometrics, and email codes.
A password manager is a special program that stores all your passwords in one safe place. You only need to remember one master password.
Password managers help you use strong, different passwords for every account. You do not have to remember them all. The password manager remembers them for you.
Imagine you have many keys for many doors. You keep them all on one keychain. The keychain is locked with one special key. That is a password manager. It holds all your passwords and locks them with one master password.
A company uses a password manager for all employees. Each employee has one master password. The manager stores all other passwords.
Your school uses a password manager for teacher accounts. Teachers only need to remember one master password.
Your family uses a password manager. Everyone has one master password. The manager stores all other passwords.
A Nigerian business uses a password manager. Employees only need to remember one master password.
Password Manager
|
V
+-------------------+
| One Master |
| Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stores All Other |
| Passwords |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Only Remember|
| One |
+-------------------+
A password manager is a program that stores all your passwords in one safe place. You only need to remember one master password.
Keeping your passwords safe means protecting them from hackers and other people.
If your password is not safe, hackers can steal it. They can access your accounts. They can steal your money and your information.
Here are ways to keep your passwords safe:
A person shared their password with a friend. The friend accidentally told someone else. The person's account was hacked.
A student wrote their password on a piece of paper. Another student found the paper and used the password.
A family used the same password for everything. When one account was hacked, all accounts were hacked.
A Nigerian bank customer used the same password for email and banking. A hacker stole the password from the email and used it to steal money.
Keeping Passwords Safe
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Share |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Write |
| Down |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use Different |
| Passwords |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use 2FA |
+-------------------+
Keep your passwords safe by not sharing them, not writing them down, using different passwords, and using 2FA.
Hackers have many ways to steal passwords. Knowing these ways helps you protect yourself.
If you know how hackers steal passwords, you can avoid the tricks.
Here are common ways hackers steal passwords:
| Method | How It Works | How to Protect Yourself |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing | Fake emails or messages that ask for your password | Do not click on strange links. Do not reply. |
| Guessing | Hackers try common passwords like "123456" | Use strong passwords. |
| Brute Force | Hackers use computers to try many passwords | Use long, complex passwords. |
| Shoulder Surfing | Hackers watch you type your password | Cover your screen. Do not type in public. |
| Malware | Bad software records your keystrokes | Use antivirus. Do not download strange files. |
| Data Breach | Hackers steal passwords from a website | Use different passwords. Change them if a site is hacked. |
A hacker sent a fake email that looked like it was from a bank. The email asked for the password. The person replied with the password. The hacker stole money.
A hacker guessed a student's password because it was "password123". The hacker changed the student's grades.
A hacker watched a family member type the Wi-Fi password at a cafe. The hacker used the Wi-Fi without permission.
A fraudster called a bank customer and said, "I am from the bank. Please tell me your OTP." The customer shared the OTP. The fraudster stole money.
How Hackers Steal Passwords
|
V
+-------------------+
| Phishing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Guessing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Brute Force |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Shoulder Surfing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Malware |
+-------------------+
Hackers steal passwords through phishing, guessing, brute force, shoulder surfing, malware, and data breaches. Know these methods to protect yourself.
Password security is used all over the world, including in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how password security works in your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank customer uses a strong password and 2FA. A fraudster tries to log in but cannot because they do not have the OTP.
A Nigerian school uses 2FA for teacher accounts. A hacker tries to log in but cannot because they do not have the code.
A Nigerian family uses a strong Wi-Fi password. A neighbour cannot guess it.
A Nigerian business uses a password manager. Employees only need to remember one master password.
Nigerian Password Security
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Strong passwords, 2FA, OTP |
| Telecoms: Passwords, 2FA |
| Government: Strong passwords, 2FA |
| Schools: Passwords, 2FA |
| Businesses: Password managers, 2FA |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use strong passwords and 2FA to stay safe.
Password security can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game where you have to protect a castle. The password is the key to the castle. If the key is weak, enemies can enter. If the key is strong, the castle is safe.
Your school has a computer lab. Each computer has a password. Only students who know the password can use the computer. That is password security.
Your phone has a password. Only you know it. That is password security.
In a Nigerian football match, the captain has a secret play. Only the team knows it. That is like a password. If the other team knows it, they can stop the play.
Fun Password Security
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: Protect account |
| Football: Goalkeeper stops goals |
| Social Media: Protect your posts |
| School: Lock your locker |
| Cooking: Secret recipe |
+------------------------------------------+
Password security is everywhere. It is in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. PC password security is just another type.
Password security is not just for computers. It is also useful in everyday life.
When you understand password security in everyday life, you can use it to stay safe.
Here are everyday examples:
You protect your ATM PIN by covering the keypad when you type it. You should also protect your computer password by not typing it in public.
You protect your locker combination by not sharing it. You should also protect your school computer password by not sharing it.
You protect your house key by keeping it safe. You should also protect your Wi-Fi password by keeping it safe.
A Nigerian family protects their ATM PIN by covering the keypad. They also protect their bank password by not sharing it.
Everyday Password Security
+------------------------------------------+
| House Key: Keep safe |
| Locker Combination: Do not share |
| ATM PIN: Cover keypad |
| Phone Passcode: Use strong one |
| Diary Lock: Keep key safe |
+------------------------------------------+
Password security is useful in everyday life. You can use it when protecting your house key, locker combination, ATM PIN, phone passcode, and diary lock.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Password | A secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts |
| Authentication | The process of proving that you are who you say you are |
| Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | An extra layer of security that requires two things to log in |
| Password Manager | A program that stores all your passwords in one safe place |
| Master Password | The one password you use to unlock your password manager |
| OTP | One Time Password - a special code for one use |
| SMS Code | A code sent to your phone by text message |
| Authenticator App | An app that generates codes for 2FA |
| Biometrics | Using your fingerprint or face to log in |
| Phishing | Fake emails or messages that try to steal your password |
| Brute Force | When hackers use computers to try many passwords |
| Shoulder Surfing | When hackers watch you type your password |
| Malware | Bad software that can steal your password |
| Data Breach | When hackers steal passwords from a website |
| PIN | Personal Identification Number - a short password |
A bank in Lagos uses strong passwords and 2FA. They send OTPs by SMS. They train staff about password safety. Their accounts are safe.
A school in Abuja uses strong passwords and 2FA for teacher accounts. They teach students about password safety. Their accounts are safe.
A family in Port Harcourt uses a strong Wi-Fi password and 2FA for email. They do not share passwords. Their accounts are safe.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank use strong passwords and 2FA to protect customer accounts. They send OTPs by SMS.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel use passwords and 2FA to protect customer accounts.
NITDA uses strong passwords and 2FA to protect government systems.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos use passwords and 2FA for student and staff accounts.
Companies like Jumia and Konga use strong passwords and 2FA to protect customer data.
In a video game, you have a password to protect your account. If your password is weak, someone can steal your account. If it is strong, your account is safe.
In football, the goalkeeper protects the goal. A strong password is like a good goalkeeper. It stops hackers from scoring.
On social media, you use a password to protect your account. If you share it, anyone can post as you. If you keep it secret, your account is safe.
In school, you lock your locker. A password is like the lock on your locker. It keeps your things safe.
Your house key is like a password. You do not give it to strangers. You do not leave it on the table. You keep it safe.
Your locker combination is like a password. You do not share it with friends. You do not write it where people can see it.
Your ATM PIN is like a password. You do not share it with anyone. You cover the keypad when you type it.
Your phone passcode is like a password. You do not share it. You use a strong one.
Your diary lock is like a password. You keep the key safe. You do not leave it lying around.
+-------------------+
| Create Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Is It Strong? |
+-------------------+
|
+----+----+
| |
Yes No
| |
V V
+-------+ +-------+
| Use | | Make |
| It | | Strong|
+-------+ +-------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+
| Use 2FA |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use Password |
| Manager |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Account Safe |
+-------------------+
Weak Medium Strong
| | |
V V V
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| "123456" | | "Password1" | | "MyD0g!sB1g& |
| | | | | Happy!" |
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| | |
V V V
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Guessed in | | Guessed in | | Guessed in |
| 1 second | | 1 day | | Millions of |
| | | | | years |
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Security Measure | Done? |
|---|---|
| Strong password on computer | Yes / No |
| Different password for each account | Yes / No |
| Two-factor authentication (2FA) turned on | Yes / No |
| Password manager installed | Yes / No |
| Passwords not written down | Yes / No |
| Passwords not shared with anyone | Yes / No |
| Logged out when done | Yes / No |
| Feature | Strong Password | Weak Password |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 12+ characters | Less than 8 characters |
| Letters | Capital and small | All small or all capital |
| Numbers | Yes | No |
| Symbols | Yes | No |
| Personal Info | No | Name, birthday |
| Guess Time | Millions of years | Seconds or minutes |
| Type | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Something You Know | A secret only you know | Password, PIN |
| Something You Have | A physical object you have | Phone, token |
| Something You Are | A part of your body | Fingerprint, face |
| Somewhere You Are | Your location | GPS, IP address |
A password is a secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts. It is like a key. Only you should have the key.
Passwords matter because they protect your personal information. They keep your money, messages, and private data safe.
Authentication is the process of proving that you are who you say you are. It keeps bad people out of your accounts.
There are four types of authentication: something you know, something you have, something you are, and somewhere you are.
Strong passwords are long, mixed, and include numbers and symbols. Weak passwords are short, common, and easy to guess.
To create a strong password, think of a sentence, take the first letters, add numbers and symbols, and mix capital and small letters.
Common password mistakes include using common words, using personal information, using the same password everywhere, and sharing passwords. Avoid these mistakes.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security. It means you need two things to log in: your password and something you have, like your phone.
Types of 2FA include SMS codes, authenticator apps, hardware tokens, biometrics, and email codes.
A password manager is a program that stores all your passwords in one safe place. You only need to remember one master password.
Keep your passwords safe by not sharing them, not writing them down, using different passwords, and using 2FA.
Hackers steal passwords through phishing, guessing, brute force, shoulder surfing, malware, and data breaches. Know these methods to protect yourself.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use strong passwords and 2FA to stay safe.
Password security is everywhere. It is in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking.
Password security is useful in everyday life. You can use it when protecting your house key, locker combination, ATM PIN, phone passcode, and diary lock.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Two: Passwords and Authentication.
In this module, you learned that a password is a secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts. You learned that it is like a key.
You learned why passwords matter. They protect your personal information. They keep your money, messages, and private data safe.
You learned about authentication. It is the process of proving that you are who you say you are.
You learned about the four types of authentication: something you know, something you have, something you are, and somewhere you are.
You learned about strong passwords and weak passwords. Strong passwords are long, mixed, and include numbers and symbols.
You learned how to create a strong password using a sentence.
You learned about common password mistakes and how to avoid them.
You learned about two-factor authentication (2FA). It is an extra layer of security.
You learned about the types of 2FA: SMS codes, authenticator apps, hardware tokens, biometrics, and email codes.
You learned about password managers. They store all your passwords in one safe place.
You learned how to keep your passwords safe.
You learned how hackers steal passwords.
You learned about Nigerian examples of password security.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You are now a Password and Authentication expert in training!
A password is a secret word or phrase that locks your computer or accounts. It is like a key.
Passwords are important because they protect your personal information. They keep your money, messages, and private data safe.
Authentication is the process of proving that you are who you say you are.
There are four types: something you know, something you have, something you are, and somewhere you are.
A strong password is long (12+ characters), mixed (capital and small letters), and includes numbers and symbols. It does not use personal information.
2FA is an extra layer of security. It means you need two things to log in: your password and something you have, like your phone.
A password manager is a program that stores all your passwords in one safe place. You only need to remember one master password.
Hackers steal passwords through phishing, guessing, brute force, shoulder surfing, malware, and data breaches.
Nigerian banks use strong passwords and 2FA. They send OTPs by SMS.
Yes! You can use password security to protect your house key, locker combination, ATM PIN, phone passcode, and diary lock.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Password | A. A code sent to your phone by text message |
| 2. Authentication | B. An extra layer of security that requires two things |
| 3. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | C. A secret word or phrase that locks your computer |
| 4. Password Manager | D. The process of proving that you are who you say you are |
| 5. SMS Code | E. Using your fingerprint or face to log in |
| 6. Authenticator App | F. A program that stores all your passwords |
| 7. Biometrics | G. An app that generates codes for 2FA |
Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-F, 5-A, 6-G, 7-E
You receive an email that says, "Your bank account is blocked. Click here to reset your password." The email address looks strange.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not click the link. This is phishing. Delete the email. Call your bank if you are worried.
Your friend uses the password "123456" for all their accounts.
Question: What should you tell your friend?
Answer: Tell your friend that "123456" is a weak password. Hackers can guess it in one second. Your friend should use a strong password and a different one for each account.
Your friend asks for your password so they can check something on your account.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not share your password. Even with friends. You can help them another way. Sharing passwords is dangerous.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class protects their passwords.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Three, you will learn about Malware and Antivirus.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Three, think about these questions:
See you in Module Three!
End of Module Two
Welcome to Module Three of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing.
In Module Two, you learned about passwords and authentication. You learned how to create strong passwords and how to keep them safe.
Now, in Module Three, you are going to learn about malware and antivirus.
What is malware?
Malware is bad software. It is a program that harms your computer. The word "malware" comes from "malicious software." Malicious means wanting to do bad things.
What is antivirus?
Antivirus is good software. It protects your computer from malware. It finds bad programs and removes them. It is like a guard for your computer.
Imagine you have a beautiful garden. You plant flowers and vegetables. But weeds also grow in the garden. The weeds try to take over. You need a gardener to remove the weeds. Malware is like weeds. Antivirus is like the gardener.
Malware is everywhere. It comes in emails. It hides in downloads. It spreads through USB drives. It can even come from websites you visit. If you are not careful, your computer can get infected.
In this module, you will learn all about malware and antivirus. You will learn what malware is. You will learn about the different types of malware. You will learn how malware spreads. You will learn how antivirus works. You will learn how to choose and use antivirus software.
By the end of this module, you will be a malware and antivirus expert. You will know how to keep your computer safe from bad software.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Enugu, Nigeria, there lived a woman named Mama Ngozi. Mama Ngozi had a beautiful garden. She grew tomatoes, peppers, and flowers.
Every morning, Mama Ngozi went to her garden. She watered the plants. She pulled out weeds. She took care of her garden.
One day, Mama Ngozi travelled to Lagos for a wedding. She was away for two weeks. When she returned, she was shocked. Her garden was full of weeds. The weeds had taken over. The tomatoes were small. The peppers were dying. The flowers were gone.
Mama Ngozi called her grandson, Emeka. "Emeka," she said, "what happened to my garden?"
Emeka looked at the garden. "The weeds grew while you were away," he said. "Nobody pulled them out."
Mama Ngozi nodded. "Weeds are like malware," she said. "If you do not remove them, they take over. They destroy everything."
Emeka was confused. "What is malware?" he asked.
Mama Ngozi smiled. "Malware is bad software that harms computers. Just like weeds harm my garden. We need a gardener to remove the weeds. And we need antivirus to remove malware."
Emeka understood. He helped Mama Ngozi clean the garden. They pulled out all the weeds. They watered the plants. After a few weeks, the garden was beautiful again.
That night, Mama Ngozi told Emeka, "Remember, my son. Malware is like weeds. It grows when you are not watching. You must always be careful. You must always use antivirus. You must always keep your computer clean."
Emeka learned a very important lesson. Malware is dangerous. Antivirus is important. And you must always be watchful.
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
Malware is bad software. It is a program that harms your computer. The word "malware" comes from "malicious software." Malicious means wanting to do bad things.
Malware can delete your files. It can slow down your computer. It can steal your information. It can even spy on you. Malware is dangerous.
Imagine you have a robot that is supposed to help you clean your room. But someone changed its program. Now the robot makes a mess instead of cleaning. That is malware. It is software that does bad things instead of good things.
A hospital's computers were infected with malware. The malware locked all the patient records and demanded money to unlock them.
A school's computers were infected with malware. The malware deleted all the exam questions.
A family's computer was infected with malware. The malware showed pop-up ads all the time.
A Nigerian business lost important files because of malware. The malware came from a fake email attachment.
Malware
|
V
+-------------------+
| Bad Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Harms Your |
| Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Deletes, Steals, |
| Spies |
+-------------------+
Malware is bad software. It harms your computer by deleting files, stealing information, or spying on you.
There are many types of malware. Each type does something different.
Knowing the types of malware helps you understand the dangers. It helps you protect yourself.
Here are the main types of malware:
| Type | What It Does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Virus | Attaches to files and spreads when you open them | Deletes your documents |
| Worm | Spreads by itself through networks | Slows down the whole network |
| Trojan | Pretends to be good software but is bad | Steals your passwords |
| Ransomware | Locks your files and asks for money | Demands payment to unlock files |
| Spyware | Spies on what you do | Records your keystrokes |
| Adware | Shows unwanted ads | Pop-up ads everywhere |
A bank's computers were infected with spyware. The spyware recorded keystrokes and stole customer passwords.
A school's computers were infected with adware. The adware showed pop-up ads during lessons.
A family's computer was infected with ransomware. The ransomware locked all the photos and demanded money.
A Nigerian business was infected with a trojan. The trojan stole customer data.
Types of Malware
|
V
+-------------------+
| Virus |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Worm |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Trojan |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Ransomware |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Spyware |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Adware |
+-------------------+
Types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware. Each type does something different.
A virus is a type of malware. It attaches itself to other files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
Viruses can spread from computer to computer. They can destroy your files. They can make your computer stop working.
Imagine you have a cold. You sneeze, and your friend gets the cold. Then your friend sneezes, and another friend gets it. A computer virus is like a cold. It spreads from computer to computer.
A virus spread through a company's network. It deleted all the files on every computer.
A virus spread through the school computer lab. It made all the computers slow.
A virus spread from a USB drive to a family computer. It deleted all the music files.
A virus spread through a Nigerian cybercafe. It stole customers' passwords.
Virus
|
V
+-------------------+
| Attaches to File |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Open File |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Virus Runs and |
| Spreads |
+-------------------+
A virus is a type of malware that attaches to files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
A worm is a type of malware. It spreads by itself. It does not need you to open a file. It copies itself and sends copies to other computers.
Worms spread very fast. They can infect many computers in a short time. They can slow down networks and cause problems.
Imagine you have a magic notebook. Every time you write in it, a copy of the notebook appears in your friend's bag. Then your friend writes in it, and a copy appears in another friend's bag. That is a worm. It copies itself without you doing anything.
A worm spread through a company's network. It slowed down all the computers and stopped work for a whole day.
A worm spread through the school network. It made the internet very slow.
A worm spread through a family's Wi-Fi. It slowed down the internet for everyone.
A worm spread through a Nigerian office network. It stopped staff from working for two days.
Worm
|
V
+-------------------+
| Copies Itself |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Sends Copies to |
| Other Computers |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Spreads Fast |
+-------------------+
A worm is a type of malware that spreads by itself. It copies itself and sends copies to other computers. It spreads very fast.
A trojan is a type of malware. It pretends to be good software. But when you install it, it does bad things.
Trojans trick you. They look like useful programs. But they are dangerous. They can steal your information or give hackers access to your computer.
Imagine a stranger gives you a gift. It looks like a beautiful box. But when you open it, a snake jumps out. That is a trojan. It looks good, but it is bad.
A person downloaded a free game. The game was a trojan. It stole their passwords.
A student downloaded a free study app. The app was a trojan. It deleted their schoolwork.
A family member downloaded a free video player. The player was a trojan. It showed pop-up ads all the time.
A Nigerian businessman downloaded a free accounting program. The program was a trojan. It stole his bank details.
Trojan
|
V
+-------------------+
| Pretends to be |
| Good Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Install It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| It Does Bad |
| Things |
+-------------------+
A trojan is a type of malware that pretends to be good software. When you install it, it does bad things.
Ransomware is a type of malware. It locks your files. Then it asks you to pay money to unlock them. The money is called a ransom.
Ransomware is very dangerous. It can lock all your files. If you do not pay, you might lose everything. Many people and companies have lost important data to ransomware.
Imagine a thief breaks into your house. He locks all your things in a room. He says, "Pay me 1 million naira, or I will throw away the key." That is ransomware. It locks your files and demands money.
A hospital was attacked by ransomware. The malware locked all patient records. The hospital had to pay to get them back.
A school was attacked by ransomware. The malware locked all student grades. The school had to restore from a backup.
A family was attacked by ransomware. The malware locked all their photos. The family had to pay to get them back.
A Nigerian business was attacked by ransomware. The malware locked all customer data. The business had to pay a large ransom.
Ransomware
|
V
+-------------------+
| Locks Your Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Asks for Money |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| If You Pay, You |
| Might Get Files |
| Back |
+-------------------+
Ransomware is a type of malware that locks your files and asks for money to unlock them. It is very dangerous.
Spyware is a type of malware. It spies on what you do. It records your keystrokes. It takes screenshots. It sends your information to hackers.
Spyware steals your privacy. It can steal your passwords. It can see your messages. It can watch everything you do.
Imagine someone hides a camera in your room. They watch everything you do. They listen to everything you say. That is spyware. It watches you secretly.
A company's computers were infected with spyware. The spyware recorded keystrokes and stole passwords.
A school's computers were infected with spyware. The spyware watched what students typed.
A family's computer was infected with spyware. The spyware watched what websites they visited.
A Nigerian bank's computers were infected with spyware. The spyware stole customer account details.
Spyware
|
V
+-------------------+
| Watches You |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Records Keys |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Sends Info to |
| Hackers |
+-------------------+
Spyware is a type of malware that spies on what you do. It steals your privacy and your information.
Malware spreads in many ways. Knowing how it spreads helps you avoid it.
If you know how malware spreads, you can protect yourself. You can avoid the things that spread malware.
Here are the main ways malware spreads:
| How It Spreads | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Email Attachments | Malware hides in files attached to emails |
| Fake Downloads | Malware hides in free software |
| USB Drives | Malware spreads from one computer to another |
| Bad Websites | Malware downloads when you visit bad sites |
| Pop-Up Ads | Malware hides in pop-up ads |
| Networks | Malware spreads through shared networks |
| Phishing | Malware hides in links in fake emails |
A person opened an email attachment. The attachment was malware. It infected the computer.
A student used a USB drive from home. The USB drive had malware. It infected the school computer.
A family member clicked on a pop-up ad. The ad downloaded malware to the computer.
A Nigerian office worker opened a fake email. The email had malware. It infected the office network.
How Malware Spreads
|
V
+-------------------+
| Email |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Downloads |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| USB Drives |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Bad Websites |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Pop-Up Ads |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Networks |
+-------------------+
Malware spreads through email attachments, fake downloads, USB drives, bad websites, pop-up ads, networks, and phishing.
Signs of a malware infection are things you notice when your computer has malware. They tell you something is wrong.
If you know the signs, you can detect malware early. You can remove it before it causes more damage.
Here are signs of a malware infection:
A person noticed their computer was very slow. They ran an antivirus scan. It found a virus. They removed it.
A school noticed pop-up ads on all computers. They ran an antivirus scan. It found adware. They removed it.
A family noticed their photos were missing. They ran an antivirus scan. It found a virus. They restored from backup.
A Nigerian business noticed its computers were crashing often. They ran an antivirus scan. It found ransomware. They restored from backup.
Signs of Malware
|
V
+-------------------+
| Slow Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Pop-Up Ads |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Missing Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Frequent Crashes |
+-------------------+
Signs of a malware infection include a slow computer, pop-up ads, missing files, frequent crashes, and antivirus problems.
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from malware. It finds bad programs and removes them. It is like a guard for your computer.
Antivirus finds and removes malware. It stops viruses from spreading. It keeps your computer safe.
Imagine you have a guard at the gate of your house. The guard checks everyone who comes in. If someone looks dangerous, the guard stops them. Antivirus is like that guard. It checks every file and stops the bad ones.
A company uses antivirus on all its computers. The antivirus stops thousands of viruses every month.
Your school uses antivirus on the computer lab computers. It stops viruses from spreading.
Your family uses antivirus on the home computer. It keeps the computer safe.
A Nigerian bank uses antivirus on all staff computers. It stops malware from stealing customer data.
Antivirus
|
V
+-------------------+
| Software Guard |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Checks Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stops Bad Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Stays |
| Safe |
+-------------------+
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
Antivirus works by scanning your computer for known malware. It compares files to a list of known viruses. If it finds a match, it removes the file.
Knowing how antivirus works helps you use it better. It helps you understand why updates are important.
Antivirus works in three main ways:
A company's antivirus uses signature-based detection. It compares files to a list of known viruses. It finds and removes a virus.
Your school's antivirus uses heuristic detection. It notices a program acting strangely. It stops the program.
Your family's antivirus uses behavioural detection. It notices a program trying to delete files. It stops the program.
A Nigerian bank's antivirus uses all three methods. It finds and removes malware before it can steal data.
How Antivirus Works
|
V
+-------------------+
| Signature-Based |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Heuristic |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Behavioural |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Removes Malware |
+-------------------+
Antivirus works by scanning for known malware, looking for bad behaviour, and watching what programs do. It removes malware when it finds it.
Choosing antivirus software means picking the best antivirus for your computer.
Not all antivirus software is good. Some are better than others. Choosing the right one keeps your computer safe.
Here is what to look for in antivirus software:
A company chooses antivirus with real-time protection. It stops malware before it can run.
Your school chooses antivirus with regular updates. It stops new viruses.
Your family chooses antivirus with low impact. It does not slow down the computer.
A Nigerian bank chooses antivirus with good support. The company helps them when they have problems.
Choosing Antivirus
|
V
+-------------------+
| Good Reputation |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Regular Updates |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Real-Time |
| Protection |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Low Impact |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Good Support |
+-------------------+
Choose antivirus with a good reputation, regular updates, real-time protection, scanning options, low impact, and good support.
Malware and antivirus are used all over the world, including in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how malware and antivirus work in your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank uses antivirus on all computers. When a virus is found, the antivirus removes it automatically.
A Nigerian school uses antivirus on the computer lab computers. When a student brings a USB drive with malware, the antivirus stops it.
A Nigerian family uses antivirus on the home computer. When a family member clicks on a bad link, the antivirus stops the malware.
A Nigerian business uses antivirus on all staff computers. The antivirus blocks thousands of malware attacks every month.
Nigerian Malware and Antivirus
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Antivirus, staff training |
| Telecoms: Antivirus, network scans |
| Government: Antivirus, public warnings |
| Schools: Antivirus, student training |
| Businesses: Antivirus, staff training |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use antivirus to protect against malware.
Malware and antivirus can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game where you have to protect a castle. Enemies attack. You use a shield to block them. Antivirus is like that shield.
Your school has a security guard at the gate. He stops bad people from entering. Antivirus is like that guard.
Your family has a mosquito net over the bed. It keeps mosquitoes away. Antivirus is like that net.
In a Nigerian football match, the goalkeeper stops the ball. Antivirus stops malware.
Fun Malware and Antivirus
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: Shield against enemies |
| Football: Goalkeeper stops ball |
| Social Media: Block bad posts |
| School: Security guard stops bad people |
| Cooking: Cover keeps flies away |
+------------------------------------------+
Malware and antivirus are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. Antivirus is like a shield or a guard.
Malware and antivirus are not just for computers. They are like things in everyday life.
When you understand malware and antivirus in everyday life, you can use the ideas to stay safe.
Here are everyday examples:
You remove weeds from your garden to keep it healthy. You remove malware from your computer to keep it safe.
You clean your classroom to keep it neat. You scan your computer to keep it clean.
You use a mosquito net to keep mosquitoes away. You use antivirus to keep malware away.
A Nigerian family uses a mosquito net to stay safe from malaria. They use antivirus to stay safe from malware.
Everyday Malware and Antivirus
+------------------------------------------+
| Weeds in Garden: Pull them out |
| Mosquitoes: Use mosquito net |
| Rats: Set traps |
| Bad Friends: Avoid them |
| Litter: Clean it up |
+------------------------------------------+
Malware and antivirus are like weeds and gardeners, mosquitoes and nets, rats and traps. You use antivirus to remove malware.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Malware | Bad software that harms your computer |
| Virus | A type of malware that attaches to files and spreads |
| Worm | A type of malware that spreads by itself |
| Trojan | A type of malware that pretends to be good software |
| Ransomware | A type of malware that locks your files and asks for money |
| Spyware | A type of malware that spies on what you do |
| Adware | A type of malware that shows unwanted ads |
| Antivirus | Software that protects your computer from malware |
| Signature | A pattern that identifies a virus |
| Heuristic | Looking for bad behaviour |
| Behavioural | Watching what programs do |
| Real-Time Protection | Checking files as you open them |
| Scan | Checking your computer for malware |
| Quarantine | Isolating a virus so it cannot harm your computer |
| USB Drive | A small device for storing files |
A bank in Lagos uses antivirus on all computers. They scan for malware every day. They train staff about malware. Their computers are safe.
A school in Abuja uses antivirus on all computers. They scan USB drives before use. They teach students about malware. Their computers are safe.
A family in Port Harcourt uses antivirus on the home computer. They do not click on strange links. They back up their photos. Their computer is safe.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank use antivirus to protect customer data. They also train staff about malware.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel use antivirus to protect their networks. They also scan for malware.
NITDA uses antivirus to protect government systems. They also warn the public about malware.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos use antivirus on all computers. They teach students about malware.
Companies like Jumia and Konga use antivirus to protect customer data. They also train staff.
In a video game, enemies attack your character. You use a shield to protect yourself. Antivirus is like a shield for your computer.
In football, the goalkeeper stops the ball from entering the goal. Antivirus is like a goalkeeper for your computer.
On social media, you block people who post bad things. Antivirus blocks bad software.
In school, the security guard stops bad people from entering. Antivirus stops bad software from entering.
Weeds are like malware. They grow and harm the plants. You pull them out. That is like antivirus.
Mosquitoes are like malware. They bite and cause harm. You use a mosquito net. That is like antivirus.
Rats are like malware. They eat your food and make a mess. You set traps. That is like antivirus.
Bad friends are like malware. They encourage you to do bad things. You avoid them. That is like antivirus.
Litter is like malware. It makes the street dirty. You clean it up. That is like antivirus.
+-------------------+
| Malware Attacks |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Antivirus Scans |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Finds Malware? |
+-------------------+
|
+----+----+
| |
Yes No
| |
V V
+-------+ +-------+
| Remove| |Computer|
| It | | Safe |
+-------+ +-------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+
| Computer Safe |
+-------------------+
Day 1: Malware enters
|
V
Day 2: Malware spreads
|
V
Day 3: Computer slows down
|
V
Day 4: Pop-up ads appear
|
V
Day 5: Files go missing
|
V
Day 6: Antivirus detects malware
|
V
Day 7: Malware removed
|
V
Day 8: Computer safe again
| Safety Measure | Done? |
|---|---|
| Antivirus installed | Yes / No |
| Antivirus updated | Yes / No |
| Regular scans scheduled | Yes / No |
| Do not click strange links | Yes / No |
| Do not open strange attachments | Yes / No |
| Scan USB drives before use | Yes / No |
| Files backed up | Yes / No |
| Feature | Virus | Worm | Trojan |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it spreads | Attaches to files | Spreads by itself | Pretends to be good software |
| Needs you to open a file? | Yes | No | Yes |
| Speed of spread | Medium | Fast | Slow |
| Example | Deletes documents | Slows network | Steals passwords |
| Type | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Virus | Attaches to files and spreads |
| Worm | Spreads by itself |
| Trojan | Pretends to be good software |
| Ransomware | Locks files and asks for money |
| Spyware | Spies on what you do |
| Adware | Shows unwanted ads |
Malware is bad software. It harms your computer by deleting files, stealing information, or spying on you.
Types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware. Each type does something different.
A virus is a type of malware that attaches to files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
A worm is a type of malware that spreads by itself. It copies itself and sends copies to other computers. It spreads very fast.
A trojan is a type of malware that pretends to be good software. When you install it, it does bad things.
Ransomware is a type of malware that locks your files and asks for money to unlock them. It is very dangerous.
Spyware is a type of malware that spies on what you do. It steals your privacy and your information.
Malware spreads through email attachments, fake downloads, USB drives, bad websites, pop-up ads, networks, and phishing.
Signs of a malware infection include a slow computer, pop-up ads, missing files, frequent crashes, and antivirus problems.
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
Antivirus works by scanning for known malware, looking for bad behaviour, and watching what programs do. It removes malware when it finds it.
Choose antivirus with a good reputation, regular updates, real-time protection, scanning options, low impact, and good support.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use antivirus to protect against malware.
Malware and antivirus are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. Antivirus is like a shield or a guard.
Malware and antivirus are like weeds and gardeners, mosquitoes and nets, rats and traps. You use antivirus to remove malware.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Three: Malware and Antivirus.
In this module, you learned that malware is bad software. It harms your computer by deleting files, stealing information, or spying on you.
You learned about the types of malware: viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware.
You learned that a virus attaches to files and spreads.
You learned that a worm spreads by itself.
You learned that a trojan pretends to be good software.
You learned that ransomware locks your files and asks for money.
You learned that spyware spies on what you do.
You learned how malware spreads: through email, downloads, USB drives, bad websites, pop-up ads, networks, and phishing.
You learned the signs of a malware infection: a slow computer, pop-up ads, missing files, and frequent crashes.
You learned about antivirus. It is software that protects your computer from malware.
You learned how antivirus works: signature-based detection, heuristic detection, and behavioural detection.
You learned how to choose antivirus software.
You learned about Nigerian examples of malware and antivirus.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You are now a Malware and Antivirus expert in training!
Malware is bad software. It harms your computer by deleting files, stealing information, or spying on you.
Types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware.
A virus is a type of malware that attaches to files. When you open the file, the virus runs and spreads.
A worm is a type of malware that spreads by itself. It copies itself and sends copies to other computers.
A trojan is a type of malware that pretends to be good software. When you install it, it does bad things.
Ransomware is a type of malware that locks your files and asks for money to unlock them.
Spyware is a type of malware that spies on what you do. It steals your privacy and your information.
Malware spreads through email attachments, fake downloads, USB drives, bad websites, pop-up ads, networks, and phishing.
Antivirus is software that protects your computer from viruses and other malware. It is like a guard for your computer.
Choose antivirus with a good reputation, regular updates, real-time protection, scanning options, low impact, and good support.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Malware | A. A type of malware that spreads by itself |
| 2. Virus | B. A type of malware that pretends to be good software |
| 3. Worm | C. Bad software that harms your computer |
| 4. Trojan | D. A type of malware that locks your files and asks for money |
| 5. Ransomware | E. A type of malware that attaches to files and spreads |
| 6. Spyware | F. Software that protects your computer from malware |
| 7. Antivirus | G. A type of malware that spies on what you do |
Answers: 1-C, 2-E, 3-A, 4-B, 5-D, 6-G, 7-F
Your computer is very slow. It shows pop-up ads all the time. Your files are missing.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Your computer might have malware. You should run an antivirus scan. You should also update your antivirus and your software.
You receive an email with an attachment. The email says, "Open this file to see something funny." You do not know the sender.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not open the attachment. It might contain malware. Delete the email.
You find a USB drive on the ground. You want to see what is on it.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not plug it into your computer. It might contain malware. Give it to an adult or a teacher.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class protects against malware.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Four, you will learn about Safe Browsing and Phishing.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Four, think about these questions:
See you in Module Four!
End of Module Three
Welcome to Module Four of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing.
In Module Two, you learned about passwords and authentication. You learned how to create strong passwords and how to keep them safe.
In Module Three, you learned about malware and antivirus. You learned what malware is and how antivirus protects your computer.
Now, in Module Four, you are going to learn about safe browsing and phishing.
What is safe browsing?
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. It means avoiding bad websites. It means not clicking on strange links. It means protecting your privacy online.
What is phishing?
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send you a fake email or message. They try to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Imagine you are walking in a big city. There are many streets. Some are safe. Some are dangerous. You need to know which streets to avoid. The internet is like that city. Some websites are safe. Some are dangerous. Safe browsing helps you stay on the safe streets.
Imagine a stranger comes to your door. He says he is a police officer. He says there is an emergency and you must let him in. But he is not a police officer. He is a thief. Phishing is like that. The hacker pretends to be someone you trust.
The internet is a wonderful place. You can learn new things. You can play games. You can talk to friends. But the internet also has dangers. Hackers are everywhere. They want to steal your information. They want to trick you.
In this module, you will learn how to stay safe online. You will learn how to spot fake websites. You will learn how to recognise phishing emails. You will learn how to protect your privacy. You will learn how to browse the internet safely.
By the end of this module, you will be a safe browsing and phishing expert. You will know how to protect yourself online.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Lagos, Nigeria, there lived a young girl named Ada. Ada loved to shop online. She bought books, clothes, and gifts for her friends.
One day, Ada received an email. The email said, "Big Sale! 90% off all items! Click here to shop now!" Ada was excited. She loved sales. She clicked on the link.
The link took her to a website. The website looked like her favourite online store. It had the same colours. It had the same logo. It looked real.
Ada found a beautiful dress. It was very cheap. She decided to buy it. She entered her name, her address, and her bank card details.
Then she clicked "Buy Now."
Nothing happened. The website froze. Then it disappeared. Ada was confused. She tried to go back to the website, but it was gone.
The next day, Ada's father, Mr. Okafor, called her. "Ada," he said, "did you use your bank card online yesterday?"
"Yes, Papa," Ada said. "I bought a dress. It was on sale."
Mr. Okafor was worried. "Ada," he said, "someone used your card to take 50,000 naira from your account. The website you visited was fake. It was a phishing website."
Ada was shocked. She started to cry. "But it looked real, Papa," she said. "It had the same logo. It had the same colours."
Mr. Okafor hugged her. "I know, my dear," he said. "Hackers are very clever. They make fake websites that look real. They trick people into giving their information. This is called phishing."
Ada learned a very important lesson. Not everything on the internet is real. Some websites are fake. Some emails are tricks. You must be careful.
That evening, Mr. Okafor taught Ada how to spot a fake website. He taught her how to check the website address. He taught her to look for HTTPS. He taught her to be careful with emails.
Ada promised to be more careful. She promised to always check before she clicked. She promised to stay safe online.
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. It means avoiding bad websites. It means not clicking on strange links. It means protecting your privacy online.
The internet has many dangers. Hackers can steal your information. Bad websites can give your computer a virus. Phishing emails can trick you. Safe browsing helps you avoid these dangers.
Imagine you are walking in a big city. There are many streets. Some are safe. Some are dangerous. You need to know which streets to avoid. The internet is like that city. Some websites are safe. Some are dangerous. Safe browsing helps you stay on the safe streets.
A person visited a bad website. The website downloaded malware to their computer. Their files were deleted.
A student visited a bad website on a school computer. The website gave the computer a virus. The school had to clean all the computers.
A family member visited a bad website. The website showed pop-up ads. The ads downloaded malware.
A Nigerian internet user visited a fake banking website. The website stole their password. They lost money.
Safe Browsing
|
V
+-------------------+
| The Internet |
| (A Big City) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Some Streets |
| are Safe |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Some Streets |
| are Dangerous |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Safe Browsing |
| Keeps You Safe |
+-------------------+
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. It helps you avoid bad websites and protect your information.
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send you a fake email or message. They try to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Phishing is one of the most common ways hackers get into computers. They trick you into opening the door for them. If you know about phishing, you can avoid it.
Imagine a stranger comes to your door. He says he is a police officer. He says there is an emergency and you must let him in. But he is not a police officer. He is a thief. Phishing is like that. The hacker pretends to be someone you trust.
A hacker sends an email that looks like it is from a bank. The email says, "Your account is blocked. Click here to fix it." The link takes you to a fake website that steals your password.
A hacker sends an email that looks like it is from your school. The email says, "Click here to see your exam results." The link steals your password.
A hacker sends a text message that looks like it is from your parents. The message says, "Send me your password." The hacker is tricking you.
A fraudster sends an email that looks like it is from a Nigerian bank. The email says, "Your account has a problem. Send your OTP to fix it." The fraudster steals the money.
Phishing
|
V
+-------------------+
| Fake Email |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Looks Real |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Click Link |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data |
+-------------------+
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Phishing works in steps. The hacker plans the attack. They send the fake message. They wait for you to click. They steal your information.
Knowing how phishing works helps you spot it. You can see the steps and stop the attack.
Here is how phishing works:
A hacker sends 1,000 fake emails. Ten people click the link. Five people enter their information. The hacker steals from those five people.
A hacker sends fake emails to students. The email says, "Your grades are ready. Click here." Some students click and enter their passwords. The hacker changes their grades.
A hacker sends fake text messages to a family. The message says, "Your package is delayed. Click here." Some family members click and enter their information. The hacker steals their data.
A fraudster sends fake emails to bank customers. The email says, "Your account is blocked. Click here." Some customers click and enter their passwords. The fraudster steals their money.
How Phishing Works
|
V
+-------------------+
| 1. Pick Target |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 2. Create Fake |
| Message |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 3. Send Message |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 4. Victim Clicks |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 5. Victim Enters |
| Info |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 6. Hacker Steals |
+-------------------+
Phishing works in six steps: pick a target, create a fake message, send the message, victim clicks, victim enters information, hacker steals information.
Spotting phishing means noticing when an email or message is fake. It means being careful.
If you can spot phishing, you can avoid it. You can protect your computer and your money.
Here are signs of phishing:
An email says, "You won 1 million naira! Click here to claim." This is phishing. You did not win anything.
An email says, "Your exam results are ready. Click here." But the email address is not from your school. This is phishing.
A text says, "Your package is delayed. Click here to track." But you did not order anything. This is phishing.
A text says, "Your bank account is blocked. Send your PIN to unblock." This is phishing. Real banks never ask for your PIN.
Spotting Phishing
|
V
+-------------------+
| Asks for Password|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Says "Urgent" |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Has Mistakes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Click! |
+-------------------+
You can spot phishing by looking for signs like requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses. Do not click on suspicious links.
There are many types of phishing. Each type uses a different way to trick you.
Knowing the types of phishing helps you spot them. You can avoid the tricks.
Here are the main types of phishing:
| Type | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Email Phishing | Fake emails that look real | Fake bank email asking for password |
| Spear Phishing | Fake emails sent to a specific person | Fake email to a company CEO |
| Smishing | Fake text messages (SMS) | Fake bank text asking for OTP |
| Vishing | Fake phone calls | Fake bank call asking for PIN |
| Pharming | Fake websites that look real | Fake bank website that steals password |
| Clone Phishing | A copy of a real email with a bad link | Copy of a real email with a fake link |
A hacker sends a fake text message that looks like it is from a bank. The text says, "Your account is blocked. Click here." This is smishing.
A hacker sends a fake email to a teacher. The email says, "Your paycheck is ready. Click here." This is spear phishing.
A hacker calls a family member. The caller says, "I am from the bank. Please tell me your PIN." This is vishing.
A fraudster sends a fake text message that looks like it is from a Nigerian bank. The text says, "Your account is blocked. Send your OTP." This is smishing.
Types of Phishing
|
V
+-------------------+
| Email Phishing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Spear Phishing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Smishing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Vishing |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Pharming |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Clone Phishing |
+-------------------+
Types of phishing include email phishing, spear phishing, smishing, vishing, pharming, and clone phishing. Each type uses a different way to trick you.
HTTPS is a way to send information safely over the internet. It scrambles the information so that hackers cannot read it. The "S" at the end means "Secure."
When you visit a website with HTTPS, your information is safe. When you visit a website without HTTPS, hackers can steal your information.
Imagine you are sending a letter. If you send it without an envelope, anyone can read it. If you send it with a sealed envelope, only the person you sent it to can read it. HTTPS is like the sealed envelope. It keeps your information safe.
A bank uses HTTPS on its website. When you log in, your password is scrambled. Hackers cannot read it.
Your school uses HTTPS on its website. When you log in, your information is safe.
Your family uses HTTPS on shopping websites. When you enter your bank card details, they are safe.
A Nigerian bank uses HTTPS on its website. When customers log in, their information is safe.
HTTPS
|
V
+-------------------+
| Scrambles Your |
| Information |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Cannot |
| Read It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Your Information |
| is Safe |
+-------------------+
HTTPS is a way to send information safely over the internet. It scrambles your information so hackers cannot read it. Always look for HTTPS on websites where you enter personal information.
Spotting a fake website means noticing when a website is not real. It means being careful before you enter your information.
If you enter your information on a fake website, hackers can steal it. They can steal your password, your money, and your identity.
Here are signs of a fake website:
A fake website looks like a bank website. But the address is "www.bankk.com" instead of "www.bank.com." The extra "k" is a trick.
A fake website looks like a school website. But the address is "www.sch00l.com" instead of "www.school.com." The zeros are a trick.
A fake website looks like a shopping website. But the prices are too low. The website is a trick.
A fake website looks like a Nigerian bank website. But the address is "www.gtbannk.com" instead of "www.gtbank.com." The extra "n" is a trick.
Spotting a Fake Website
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check the |
| Address (URL) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Look for HTTPS |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check for |
| Mistakes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Enter |
| Information |
+-------------------+
You can spot a fake website by checking the address, looking for HTTPS, and checking for mistakes. Do not enter information on suspicious websites.
Safe downloading means being careful when you download files from the internet. It means only downloading from trusted websites.
Bad downloads can contain malware. They can infect your computer. They can steal your information.
Imagine you are buying food from a street vendor. If the vendor looks clean and trustworthy, you buy the food. If the vendor looks dirty and strange, you do not buy the food. Safe downloading is the same. Only download from websites you trust.
A person downloaded a free game from an unknown website. The game contained malware. It deleted all their files.
A student downloaded a free study app from an unknown website. The app contained adware. It showed pop-up ads all the time.
A family member downloaded a free video player from an unknown website. The player contained spyware. It watched what they did.
A Nigerian businessman downloaded a free accounting program from an unknown website. The program contained a trojan. It stole his bank details.
Safe Downloading
|
V
+-------------------+
| Download from |
| Trusted Websites |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Scan Files with |
| Antivirus |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Your Computer |
| Stays Safe |
+-------------------+
Safe downloading means only downloading files from trusted websites. Bad downloads can contain malware. Always scan files with antivirus before opening them.
Public Wi-Fi is a wireless internet connection that anyone can use. It is found in cafes, airports, hotels, and libraries.
Public Wi-Fi is not always safe. Hackers can spy on what you do. They can steal your passwords and your information.
Imagine you are talking to your friend in a crowded room. Anyone can hear what you are saying. Public Wi-Fi is like that crowded room. Anyone can see what you are doing. Hackers can listen to your information.
A person used public Wi-Fi at a cafe. A hacker stole their password. The hacker accessed their bank account.
A student used public Wi-Fi at a library. A hacker stole their school password. The hacker changed their grades.
A family member used public Wi-Fi at an airport. A hacker stole their email password. The hacker sent fake emails to their friends.
A Nigerian business traveller used public Wi-Fi at a hotel. A hacker stole their bank details. The hacker stole money from their account.
Public Wi-Fi Risks
|
V
+-------------------+
| Public Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Can Spy |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| They Steal Your |
| Information |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data |
+-------------------+
Public Wi-Fi is not always safe. Hackers can spy on what you do. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking.
Staying safe on public Wi-Fi means taking steps to protect your information when you use public networks.
If you do not protect yourself, hackers can steal your information. You can lose money and privacy.
Here is how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi:
A person used a VPN on public Wi-Fi. The VPN scrambled their information. Hackers could not read it.
A student used HTTPS websites on public Wi-Fi. Their information was safe.
A family member turned off file sharing on public Wi-Fi. Hackers could not access their files.
A Nigerian business traveller used a VPN on public Wi-Fi. Their bank details were safe.
Staying Safe on Public Wi-Fi
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use a VPN |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use HTTPS |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| No Banking |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Log Out |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stay Safe |
+-------------------+
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi by using a VPN, using HTTPS, avoiding banking, and logging out when done.
Protecting your privacy online means keeping your personal information safe. It means not sharing too much with strangers.
If you share too much online, hackers can use it against you. They can steal your identity. They can trick you.
Here is how to protect your privacy:
A person shared their address on social media. A stranger used the address to find their house.
A student shared their school name and photos online. A stranger used the information to trick them.
A family shared photos of their house online. A thief used the photos to plan a robbery.
A Nigerian shared their bank details on social media. A fraudster used the details to steal money.
Protecting Your Privacy
|
V
+-------------------+
| Do Not Share |
| Personal Info |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use Privacy |
| Settings |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Think Before |
| You Post |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stay Safe |
+-------------------+
Protect your privacy online by not sharing too much personal information, using privacy settings, and thinking before you post.
Safe browsing and phishing are important in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how these issues affect your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank sends a text message: "Dear customer, beware of fake emails asking for your password. We will never ask for your password. Do not reply. Call us if you are not sure."
A Nigerian school tells students: "Do not click on strange links. They can give your computer a virus. If you see a strange link, tell a teacher."
A Nigerian family tells their children: "Do not share your personal information online. Hackers can use it to trick you."
NITDA posts on social media: "Be careful of fake websites. They look like real websites, but they are not. Always check the website address before you enter your password."
Nigerian Safe Browsing and Phishing
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Warn about phishing |
| Telecoms: Warn about smishing |
| Government: Warn about phishing |
| Schools: Teach safe browsing |
| Businesses: Warn about fake websites |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all warn people about phishing and teach safe browsing.
Safe browsing and phishing can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game. Someone sends you a message: "Give me your password, and I will give you 1,000 gold coins." That is phishing. Do not do it.
Your teacher tells you: "If someone asks for your password, do not give it. Even if they say they are from the school."
Your parents tell you: "If someone calls and says they are from the bank, do not give them your PIN. Real banks never ask for your PIN."
In a Nigerian football match, the other team pretends to kick left but kicks right. That is a trick. Phishing is a trick too.
Fun Safe Browsing and Phishing
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: Enemies pretend to be friends|
| Football: Team tricks you |
| Social Media: Fake friend asks password |
| School: Fake teacher asks password |
| Cooking: Fake recipe |
+------------------------------------------+
Safe browsing and phishing can be understood through video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. Hackers trick you, but you can spot the tricks.
Safe browsing is not just for computers. It is also useful in everyday life.
When you understand safe browsing in everyday life, you can use it to stay safe.
Here are everyday examples:
You look both ways before crossing the road. You also check a website before entering your password.
You do not talk to strangers at school. You also do not click on links from strangers online.
You lock the door at night. You also log out of your accounts when you are done.
A Nigerian family does not open the door for strangers. They also do not click on strange links online.
Everyday Safe Browsing
+------------------------------------------+
| Crossing Road: Look both ways |
| Riding Bike: Wear helmet |
| Using Phone: Do not answer strangers |
| Going Online: Keep password secret |
| Sharing Info: Do not tell strangers |
+------------------------------------------+
Safe browsing is useful in everyday life. You can use it when crossing the road, riding a bike, using a phone, going online, and sharing information.
A safe browsing plan is a set of rules you follow to stay safe online.
A plan helps you remember what to do. It helps you stay safe.
A safe browsing plan has these parts:
A person's safe browsing plan includes:
Your school's safe browsing plan includes:
Your family's safe browsing plan includes:
A Nigerian company's safe browsing plan includes:
Safe Browsing Plan
|
V
+-------------------+
| Rules |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Websites |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Links |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Information |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Review |
+-------------------+
A safe browsing plan explains what rules you will follow, which websites you will visit, how you will check links, what information you will share, how you will use public Wi-Fi, and when you will review.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Safe Browsing | Being careful when you use the internet |
| Phishing | Fake emails or messages that try to steal your information |
| Spear Phishing | Fake emails sent to a specific person |
| Smishing | Fake text messages (SMS) |
| Vishing | Fake phone calls |
| Pharming | Fake websites that look real |
| Clone Phishing | A copy of a real email with a bad link |
| HTTPS | A way to send information safely over the internet |
| URL | The address of a website |
| VPN | Virtual Private Network - scrambles your information |
| Public Wi-Fi | Wireless internet that anyone can use |
| Privacy | Keeping your personal information safe |
| Download | Copying a file from the internet to your computer |
| File Sharing | Letting others access your files |
| Log Out | Signing out of your account |
A bank in Lagos warns customers about phishing. They send text messages that say, "We will never ask for your PIN or OTP." They teach customers how to spot fake emails.
A school in Abuja teaches students about safe browsing. They hold assemblies and send emails to parents. They teach students how to spot fake websites.
A family in Port Harcourt uses a safe browsing plan. They check website addresses before entering information. They do not click on strange links. They use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank warn customers about phishing. They send text messages that say, "We will never ask for your PIN or OTP."
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel warn customers about smishing. They send messages that say, "Do not click on strange links."
NITDA warns the public about phishing. They post warnings on social media and websites.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos teach students about safe browsing. They hold assemblies and send emails.
Companies like Jumia and Konga warn customers about fake websites. They send messages that say, "Always check the website address before you pay."
In a video game, enemies pretend to be friends. They trick you. Phishing is like that. Hackers pretend to be friends.
In football, the other team pretends to go left but goes right. They trick you. Phishing is like that. Hackers trick you.
On social media, someone might pretend to be your friend. They ask for your password. That is phishing.
In school, someone might pretend to be a teacher. They ask for your password. That is phishing.
You look both ways before crossing. Safe browsing is like looking both ways before clicking.
You wear a helmet. Safe browsing is like using antivirus.
You do not answer calls from unknown numbers. Safe browsing is like not clicking on unknown links.
You do not share your password. Safe browsing is like keeping your password secret.
You do not tell strangers your secrets. Safe browsing is like not sharing personal information online.
+-------------------+
| Visit a Website |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check Address |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Look for HTTPS |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check for |
| Mistakes |
+-------------------+
|
+----+----+
| |
Safe Unsafe
| |
V V
+-------+ +-------+
| Enter | | Leave |
| Info | | Site |
+-------+ +-------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+
| Stay Safe |
+-------------------+
Day 1: Hacker picks target
|
V
Day 2: Hacker creates fake email
|
V
Day 3: Hacker sends email
|
V
Day 4: Victim receives email
|
V
Day 5: Victim clicks link
|
V
Day 6: Victim enters information
|
V
Day 7: Hacker steals information
|
V
Day 8: Victim loses money/data
| Safety Measure | Done? |
|---|---|
| Check website address before entering information | Yes / No |
| Look for HTTPS (padlock icon) | Yes / No |
| Do not click on strange links | Yes / No |
| Do not open strange attachments | Yes / No |
| Download from trusted websites only | Yes / No |
| Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi | Yes / No |
| Log out when done | Yes / No |
| Feature | Safe Website | Fake Website |
|---|---|---|
| Address (URL) | Correct spelling | Wrong spelling |
| HTTPS | Yes (padlock) | No |
| Spelling | No mistakes | Many mistakes |
| Information asked | Normal | Too much |
| Reviews | Good | Bad |
| Type | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Email Phishing | Fake emails that look real |
| Spear Phishing | Fake emails sent to a specific person |
| Smishing | Fake text messages (SMS) |
| Vishing | Fake phone calls |
| Pharming | Fake websites that look real |
| Clone Phishing | A copy of a real email with a bad link |
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. It helps you avoid bad websites and protect your information.
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Phishing works in six steps: pick a target, create a fake message, send the message, victim clicks, victim enters information, hacker steals information.
You can spot phishing by looking for signs like requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses. Do not click on suspicious links.
Types of phishing include email phishing, spear phishing, smishing, vishing, pharming, and clone phishing. Each type uses a different way to trick you.
HTTPS is a way to send information safely over the internet. It scrambles your information so hackers cannot read it.
You can spot a fake website by checking the address, looking for HTTPS, and checking for mistakes. Do not enter information on suspicious websites.
Safe downloading means only downloading files from trusted websites. Bad downloads can contain malware.
Public Wi-Fi is not always safe. Hackers can spy on what you do. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking.
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi by using a VPN, using HTTPS, avoiding banking, and logging out when done.
Protect your privacy online by not sharing too much personal information, using privacy settings, and thinking before you post.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all warn people about phishing and teach safe browsing.
Safe browsing and phishing can be understood through video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. Hackers trick you, but you can spot the tricks.
Safe browsing is useful in everyday life. You can use it when crossing the road, riding a bike, using a phone, going online, and sharing information.
A safe browsing plan explains what rules you will follow, which websites you will visit, how you will check links, what information you will share, how you will use public Wi-Fi, and when you will review.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Four: Safe Browsing and Phishing.
In this module, you learned that safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. You learned that it helps you avoid bad websites and protect your information.
You learned about phishing. It is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you.
You learned how phishing works. It works in six steps: pick a target, create a fake message, send the message, victim clicks, victim enters information, hacker steals information.
You learned how to spot phishing. Look for requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses.
You learned about the types of phishing: email phishing, spear phishing, smishing, vishing, pharming, and clone phishing.
You learned about HTTPS. It is a way to send information safely over the internet.
You learned how to spot a fake website. Check the address, look for HTTPS, and check for mistakes.
You learned about safe downloading. Only download from trusted websites.
You learned about public Wi-Fi risks. Hackers can spy on what you do.
You learned how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN, use HTTPS, avoid banking, and log out when done.
You learned how to protect your privacy online. Do not share too much personal information.
You learned about Nigerian examples of safe browsing and phishing.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You learned how to build a safe browsing plan.
You are now a Safe Browsing and Phishing expert in training!
Safe browsing means being careful when you use the internet. It helps you avoid bad websites and protect your information.
Phishing is when a bad person pretends to be someone you trust. They send fake emails or messages to trick you into giving them your password or money.
Phishing works in six steps: pick a target, create a fake message, send the message, victim clicks, victim enters information, hacker steals information.
Look for requests for passwords, urgent language, spelling mistakes, and strange email addresses. Do not click on suspicious links.
Types of phishing include email phishing, spear phishing, smishing, vishing, pharming, and clone phishing.
HTTPS is a way to send information safely over the internet. It scrambles your information so hackers cannot read it.
Check the address, look for HTTPS, and check for mistakes. Do not enter information on suspicious websites.
Safe downloading means only downloading files from trusted websites.
Use a VPN, use HTTPS, avoid banking, and log out when done.
Do not share too much personal information. Use privacy settings. Think before you post.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Safe Browsing | A. Fake text messages |
| 2. Phishing | B. A way to send information safely over the internet |
| 3. Smishing | C. Being careful when you use the internet |
| 4. Vishing | D. Fake websites that look real |
| 5. Pharming | E. Fake emails or messages that try to steal your information |
| 6. HTTPS | F. Fake phone calls |
| 7. VPN | G. Scrambles your information on public Wi-Fi |
Answers: 1-C, 2-E, 3-A, 4-F, 5-D, 6-B, 7-G
You receive an email that says, "Your bank account is blocked. Click here to fix it." The email address looks strange.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not click the link. This is phishing. Delete the email. Call your bank if you are worried.
You want to buy something online. The website address is "www.amaz0n.com" instead of "www.amazon.com."
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not enter your information. This is a fake website. The address is spelled wrong. Leave the website.
You are at a cafe. You want to check your bank account. The cafe has free Wi-Fi.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not do banking on public Wi-Fi. Hackers can spy on you. Wait until you are on a secure network. Or use a VPN.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class stays safe online.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Five, you will learn about Updates and Patching.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Five, think about these questions:
See you in Module Five!
End of Module Four
Welcome to Module Five of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing.
In Module Two, you learned about passwords and authentication. You learned how to create strong passwords and how to keep them safe.
In Module Three, you learned about malware and antivirus. You learned what malware is and how antivirus protects your computer.
In Module Four, you learned about safe browsing and phishing. You learned how to spot fake websites and avoid phishing emails.
Now, in Module Five, you are going to learn about updates and patching.
What is an update?
An update is a new version of software. It fixes problems and adds new features. It also fixes security holes.
What is a patch?
A patch is a small update. It fixes a specific problem. It is like a bandage for a cut.
Imagine you have a bucket with a small hole in it. Water keeps leaking out. You put a patch on the hole. Now the bucket does not leak anymore. A software patch is like that. It fixes a hole in your software.
Why are updates important?
Hackers are always looking for weaknesses in software. When they find a weakness, they use it to break into computers. Software companies fix these weaknesses with updates. If you do not update, the weaknesses stay open. Hackers can use them to get in.
Think about it this way. Your house has a door. The lock on the door is old. Someone finds out how to open the lock without a key. They tell other thieves. Now many thieves can open your door. You need to change the lock. That is what updates do. They change the lock so hackers cannot get in.
Updates and patching are very important. They are one of the easiest ways to stay safe. You just need to click a button. The computer does the rest.
In this module, you will learn all about updates and patching. You will learn why they matter. You will learn how to update your computer. You will learn how to update your apps. You will learn about automatic updates and manual updates.
By the end of this module, you will be an updates and patching expert. You will know how to keep your computer safe with simple updates.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Kano, Nigeria, there lived a man named Malam Ibrahim. Malam Ibrahim had a small house. The house had a roof. The roof was old.
One day, it started to rain. Water started leaking through the roof. It dripped onto the floor. Malam Ibrahim put a bucket under the leak. But the leak got worse. Soon, there were three leaks. Then five. Then ten.
Malam Ibrahim called a carpenter. The carpenter looked at the roof.
"Malam," the carpenter said, "your roof has many small holes. The rain is getting in. If you do not fix the holes, the whole roof will collapse."
Malam Ibrahim was worried. "How much will it cost to fix?" he asked.
"It will cost 50,000 naira," the carpenter said.
Malam Ibrahim did not have the money. He decided to wait. He put more buckets under the leaks.
A few weeks later, it rained again. This time, the rain was very heavy. The roof collapsed. Water poured into the house. It destroyed the furniture. It ruined the food. It damaged everything.
Malam Ibrahim called the carpenter again. "Please fix my roof," he said.
The carpenter looked at the damage. "Malam," he said, "now it will cost 500,000 naira. The whole roof must be replaced. If you had fixed the small holes earlier, it would have cost only 50,000 naira."
Malam Ibrahim learned a very important lesson. Small problems become big problems if you do not fix them.
That evening, Malam Ibrahim told his children, "My children, software is like my roof. It has small holes. These holes are called vulnerabilities. Hackers use them to get in. We must fix the holes with updates and patches. If we do not, the holes get bigger. Hackers can destroy everything."
His children understood. They promised to always update their computers and phones.
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
An update is a new version of software. It fixes problems and adds new features. It also fixes security holes.
Updates fix security holes. Hackers look for old software with security holes. Updates close these holes. If you do not update, hackers can get in.
Imagine you have a bucket with a small hole in it. Water keeps leaking out. You put a patch on the hole. Now the bucket does not leak anymore. A software update is like that. It fixes a hole in your software.
A company did not update its software. A hacker used an old hole to break in and steal data. The company lost millions of naira.
Your school updates its computers every month. This keeps them safe from viruses.
Your family updates the home computer every week. This keeps it safe.
A Nigerian bank updates its software regularly. This stops fraudsters from using old security holes.
Update
|
V
+-------------------+
| Old Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Has Holes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Fixes |
| Holes |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Safe |
+-------------------+
An update is a new version of software that fixes problems and security holes. Updating your computer keeps it safe from hackers.
A patch is a small update. It fixes a specific problem. It is like a bandage for a cut.
Patches fix specific security holes quickly. They are small and fast to install. They keep your computer safe without waiting for a big update.
Imagine you have a small cut on your finger. You do not need a big bandage. You just need a small plaster. That is a patch. It fixes the small problem quickly.
A software company found a security hole in its program. They released a patch to fix it. Users installed the patch and were safe.
Your school's computer system had a small problem. The IT teacher installed a patch. The problem was fixed.
Your family's Wi-Fi router had a small problem. Your parents installed a patch. The problem was fixed.
A Nigerian bank found a small problem in its app. The bank released a patch. Customers updated the app and were safe.
Patch
|
V
+-------------------+
| Small Problem |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Patch Fixes It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Problem Solved |
+-------------------+
A patch is a small update that fixes a specific problem. It is like a bandage for a cut. Patches keep your computer safe.
A security hole is a weakness in software. Hackers can use it to break into your computer.
If you do not fix security holes, hackers can use them. Updates fix these holes. They close the door on hackers.
Imagine your house has a window that does not lock. A thief can open it and enter. You fix the lock. Now the thief cannot enter. A security hole is like that window. An update fixes the lock.
A company had an old version of Windows. The version had a security hole. A hacker used it to break in. The company updated Windows. The hole was fixed.
Your school had an old version of its website software. The software had a security hole. A hacker changed the website. The school updated the software. The hole was fixed.
Your family had an old version of a browser. The browser had a security hole. A hacker could see your passwords. Your family updated the browser. The hole was fixed.
A Nigerian bank had an old version of its banking app. The app had a security hole. A fraudster could access accounts. The bank updated the app. The hole was fixed.
Security Hole
|
V
+-------------------+
| Weakness in |
| Software |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hacker Can Enter |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Fixes It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hacker Cannot |
| Enter |
+-------------------+
A security hole is a weakness in software. Hackers use it to break in. Updates fix security holes and keep hackers out.
There are different types of updates. Each type does something different.
Knowing the types of updates helps you understand what they do. It helps you decide which ones to install.
Here are the main types of updates:
| Type of Update | What It Does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Security Update | Fixes security holes | Fixing a hole that hackers can use |
| Bug Fix Update | Fixes problems in the software | Fixing a crash in an app |
| Feature Update | Adds new features | Adding a new tool to an app |
| Driver Update | Updates software for hardware | Updating a printer driver |
| Firmware Update | Updates software built into a device | Updating a router's firmware |
A company installs security updates every month. They install bug fix updates when needed. They install feature updates when they want new tools.
Your school installs security updates on all computers. They install bug fix updates when a program crashes.
Your family installs security updates on the home computer. They install driver updates for the printer.
A Nigerian bank installs security updates on all systems. They install firmware updates on their routers.
Types of Updates
|
V
+-------------------+
| Security Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Bug Fix Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Feature Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Driver Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Firmware Update |
+-------------------+
Types of updates include security updates, bug fix updates, feature updates, driver updates, and firmware updates.
Automatic updates install by themselves. Manual updates require you to click a button.
Automatic updates are easier. You do not have to remember. Manual updates give you control. You decide when to update.
Imagine you have a robot that cleans your room. If the robot cleans by itself, that is automatic. If you have to tell the robot to clean, that is manual. Automatic updates are like the robot that cleans by itself.
A company sets updates to automatic. The computers update themselves. The IT team does not have to remember.
Your school sets updates to automatic. The computers update themselves every night.
Your family sets updates to automatic. The home computer updates itself.
A Nigerian bank sets updates to automatic. The systems update themselves regularly.
Automatic vs Manual Updates
|
V
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| AUTOMATIC | | MANUAL |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| - Updates itself | | - You click button|
| - You do not | | - You decide when |
| remember | | |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
| Easier | | More control |
+-------------------+ +-------------------+
Automatic updates install by themselves. Manual updates require you to click a button. Automatic updates are easier. Manual updates give you more control.
Windows is an operating system made by Microsoft. It is used on many computers. Updating Windows keeps your computer safe.
Windows has many security holes. Hackers look for these holes. Updates fix them. If you do not update Windows, hackers can get in.
Here is how to update Windows:
A person checks for Windows updates every week. They install updates as soon as they are available.
Your school sets Windows updates to automatic. The computers update themselves.
Your family checks for Windows updates every month. They install updates as soon as they are available.
A Nigerian bank updates Windows on all computers. They do this every month.
Updating Windows
|
V
+-------------------+
| Start Button |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Settings |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update & Security|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Windows Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check for Updates|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Install Updates |
+-------------------+
To update Windows, go to Settings, click Update & Security, click Windows Update, check for updates, and install them.
macOS is an operating system made by Apple. It is used on Mac computers. Updating macOS keeps your computer safe.
macOS has security holes. Hackers look for these holes. Updates fix them. If you do not update macOS, hackers can get in.
Here is how to update macOS:
A person checks for macOS updates every week. They install updates as soon as they are available.
Your school sets macOS updates to automatic. The Mac computers update themselves.
Your family checks for macOS updates every month. They install updates as soon as they are available.
A Nigerian company updates macOS on all Mac computers. They do this every month.
Updating macOS
|
V
+-------------------+
| Apple Menu |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| System Preferences|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Software Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check for Updates|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Install Updates |
+-------------------+
To update macOS, go to System Preferences, click Software Update, check for updates, and install them.
Linux is an operating system that is free and open. It is used on many computers and servers. Updating Linux keeps your computer safe.
Linux has security holes. Hackers look for these holes. Updates fix them. If you do not update Linux, hackers can get in.
Here is how to update Linux:
A person updates Linux every week. They use the Terminal to install updates.
Your school updates Linux on all servers. The IT teacher runs the update commands.
Your family updates Linux on the home computer. They use the Terminal to install updates.
A Nigerian tech company updates Linux on all servers. They do this every week.
Updating Linux
|
V
+-------------------+
| Open Terminal |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| sudo apt update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| sudo apt upgrade |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Install Updates |
+-------------------+
To update Linux, open the Terminal and type the update and upgrade commands. Wait for the updates to install.
Apps are programs on your computer. Browsers are programs you use to access the internet. Updating them keeps you safe.
Apps and browsers have security holes. Hackers look for these holes. Updates fix them. If you do not update, hackers can get in.
Here is how to update apps and browsers:
A person updates their browser every week. They also update their apps every month.
Your school updates all apps and browsers on school computers. They do this every month.
Your family updates apps and browsers on the home computer. They do this every month.
A Nigerian business updates all apps and browsers on staff computers. They do this every month.
Updating Apps and Browsers
|
V
+-------------------+
| Open Store |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Click Updates |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Install Updates |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Apps Safe |
+-------------------+
To update apps and browsers, use the app store or browser menu. Check for updates regularly.
Signs that an update is needed are things you notice that tell you your software is old.
If you know the signs, you can update before hackers get in.
Here are signs that an update is needed:
A person noticed their browser was slow. They checked for updates. They installed the update. The browser became fast again.
A school noticed its computers kept crashing. They checked for updates. They installed the updates. The computers stopped crashing.
A family noticed their apps were not working. They checked for updates. They installed the updates. The apps worked again.
A Nigerian business noticed its software was slow. They checked for updates. They installed the updates. The software became fast again.
Signs That an Update is Needed
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Asks |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Apps Crash |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Browser Slow |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Available |
+-------------------+
Signs that an update is needed include your computer asking you to update, apps crashing, slow browsers, and "Update Available" messages.
Updates and patching are used all over the world, including in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how updates and patching work in your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank updates its banking app every month. They also install patches. Customers are safe from fraud.
A Nigerian school updates its computers every month. They also install patches. Student data is safe.
A Nigerian family updates its home computer every month. They also install patches. Their data is safe.
NITDA updates its software every month. They also install patches. Government systems are safe.
Nigerian Updates and Patching
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Update software, install patches |
| Telecoms: Update networks, patches |
| Government: Update systems, patches |
| Schools: Update computers, patches |
| Businesses: Update software, patches |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use updates and patches to stay safe.
Updates and patching can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game. Your character gets hurt. You use a health pack. That is like an update. It fixes the problem.
Your teacher gives you a new book. It has more information. That is like an update. It gives you new things.
Your family fixes a leaking tap. That is like a patch. It fixes a small problem.
In a Nigerian football match, the coach changes tactics. That is like an update. It fixes a problem.
Fun Updates and Patching
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: New armour |
| Football: Practice new skills |
| Social Media: Update profile |
| School: Learn new things |
| Cooking: Fix recipe |
+------------------------------------------+
Updates and patching are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. They fix problems and add new things.
Updates and patching are not just for computers. They are like things in everyday life.
When you understand updates and patching in everyday life, you can use the ideas to stay safe.
Here are everyday examples:
You fix a leaking tap. That is a patch. You replace an old light bulb. That is an update.
You fix a torn page in your book. That is a patch. You get a new book. That is an update.
You fix a broken chair. That is a patch. You buy a new chair. That is an update.
A Nigerian family fixes a broken generator. That is a patch. They buy a new generator. That is an update.
Everyday Updates and Patching
+------------------------------------------+
| Fix Leaking Roof: Patch |
| Mend Torn Shirt: Patch |
| Replace Broken Bulb: Update |
| Sharpen Dull Knife: Update |
| Take Medicine: Patch |
+------------------------------------------+
Updates and patching are like fixing a leaking roof, mending a torn shirt, replacing a broken bulb, sharpening a dull knife, and taking medicine.
An update and patching plan is a set of rules you follow to keep your software up to date.
A plan helps you remember to update. It helps you stay safe.
An update and patching plan has these parts:
A person's update plan includes:
Your school's update plan includes:
Your family's update plan includes:
A Nigerian company's update plan includes:
Update and Patching Plan
|
V
+-------------------+
| What to Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| When to Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| How to Update |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Who is Responsible|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| How to Check |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Review |
+-------------------+
An update and patching plan explains what to update, when to update, how to update, who is responsible, how to check, and when to review.
A case study is a real-life example that helps us learn. Let us look at a Nigerian bank.
Case studies help us see how updates and patching work in real life.
A Nigerian bank noticed that hackers were attacking its systems. The bank decided to improve its update process.
Here is what they did:
After six months, the bank saw results:
The bank learned that updates and patching save money and protect customers.
The bank shared its success with other banks. They all started improving their update processes.
Your school can use the same approach. List all software. Set updates to automatic. Appoint a responsible person. Check every week. Review every term.
Your family can use the same approach. List all software. Set updates to automatic. Appoint a responsible person. Check every month. Review every month.
Nigerian banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank all use similar update strategies. They update regularly and install patches.
Case Study: Nigerian Bank
|
V
+-------------------+
| Problem: Hacker |
| Attacks |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Solution: Update |
| and Patching Plan|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| What, When, How, |
| Who, Check, |
| Review |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Result: 70% less |
| attacks, happier |
| customers |
+-------------------+
A Nigerian bank used an update and patching plan to reduce hacker attacks by 70%. They listed what to update, set automatic updates, appointed a team, checked weekly, and reviewed quarterly.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Update | A new version of software that fixes problems and security holes |
| Patch | A small update that fixes a specific problem |
| Security Hole | A weakness in software that hackers can use |
| Vulnerability | Another word for security hole |
| Automatic Update | An update that installs by itself |
| Manual Update | An update that you install by clicking a button |
| Operating System | The main software that runs your computer |
| Windows | An operating system made by Microsoft |
| macOS | An operating system made by Apple |
| Linux | A free operating system |
| App | A program on your computer |
| Browser | A program you use to access the internet |
| Driver | Software that helps hardware work |
| Firmware | Software built into a device |
| Vulnerability | A weakness that hackers can use |
A bank in Lagos updates its software every week. They install patches as soon as they are available. Their systems are safe from hackers.
A school in Abuja updates its computers every month. They install patches as soon as they are available. Their computers are safe from viruses.
A family in Port Harcourt updates its home computer every month. They install patches as soon as they are available. Their computer is safe.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank update their software regularly. They also install patches. This keeps customer data safe.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel update their network software. They also install patches. This keeps their networks safe.
NITDA updates its software regularly. They also install patches. This keeps government systems safe.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos update their computers. They also install patches. This keeps student data safe.
Companies like Jumia and Konga update their software. They also install patches. This keeps customer data safe.
In a video game, you update your character with new armour and weapons. Updates for your computer give it new protection.
In football, you practice new skills. Updates are like practice. They make your computer better.
On social media, you update your profile. Software updates update your computer.
In school, you learn new things. Updates teach your computer new things.
The leak is a problem. Fixing it is a patch.
The tear is a problem. Mending it is a patch.
The broken bulb is a problem. Replacing it is an update.
The dull knife is a problem. Sharpening it is an update.
The cold is a problem. Medicine is a patch.
+-------------------+
| Software Has |
| Security Hole |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Company Releases |
| Update/Patch |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Install |
| Update/Patch |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Security Hole |
| is Fixed |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Safe |
+-------------------+
Day 1: Company finds security hole
|
V
Day 2: Company creates patch
|
V
Day 3: Company releases patch
|
V
Day 4: You receive notification
|
V
Day 5: You install patch
|
V
Day 6: Security hole is fixed
|
V
Day 7: Computer safe
| Update Task | Done? |
|---|---|
| Windows updated | Yes / No |
| macOS updated | Yes / No |
| Linux updated | Yes / No |
| Apps updated | Yes / No |
| Browsers updated | Yes / No |
| Drivers updated | Yes / No |
| Firmware updated | Yes / No |
| Feature | Automatic Updates | Manual Updates |
|---|---|---|
| Who installs? | Computer | You |
| Ease | Very easy | Needs action |
| Control | Less control | More control |
| Safety | Always up to date | You must remember |
| Feature | Update | Patch |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Small |
| What it does | Fixes many things | Fixes one thing |
| Frequency | Less often | More often |
| Example | New version of Windows | Fix for a security hole |
An update is a new version of software that fixes problems and security holes. Updating your computer keeps it safe from hackers.
A patch is a small update that fixes a specific problem. It is like a bandage for a cut. Patches keep your computer safe.
A security hole is a weakness in software. Hackers use it to break in. Updates fix security holes and keep hackers out.
Types of updates include security updates, bug fix updates, feature updates, driver updates, and firmware updates.
Automatic updates install by themselves. Manual updates require you to click a button. Automatic updates are easier. Manual updates give you more control.
To update Windows, go to Settings, click Update & Security, click Windows Update, check for updates, and install them.
To update macOS, go to System Preferences, click Software Update, check for updates, and install them.
To update Linux, open the Terminal and type the update and upgrade commands. Wait for the updates to install.
To update apps and browsers, use the app store or browser menu. Check for updates regularly.
Signs that an update is needed include your computer asking you to update, apps crashing, slow browsers, and "Update Available" messages.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use updates and patches to stay safe.
Updates and patching are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. They fix problems and add new things.
Updates and patching are like fixing a leaking roof, mending a torn shirt, replacing a broken bulb, sharpening a dull knife, and taking medicine.
An update and patching plan explains what to update, when to update, how to update, who is responsible, how to check, and when to review.
A Nigerian bank used an update and patching plan to reduce hacker attacks by 70%. They listed what to update, set automatic updates, appointed a team, checked weekly, and reviewed quarterly.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Five: Updates and Patching.
In this module, you learned that an update is a new version of software. It fixes problems and security holes.
You learned that a patch is a small update. It fixes a specific problem.
You learned that a security hole is a weakness in software. Hackers use it to break in.
You learned that updates fix security holes. They keep hackers out.
You learned about the types of updates: security updates, bug fix updates, feature updates, driver updates, and firmware updates.
You learned about automatic updates and manual updates.
You learned how to update Windows, macOS, and Linux.
You learned how to update apps and browsers.
You learned about the signs that an update is needed.
You learned about Nigerian examples of updates and patching.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You learned how to build an update and patching plan.
You learned from a case study of a Nigerian bank that reduced hacker attacks by 70%.
You are now an Updates and Patching expert in training!
An update is a new version of software that fixes problems and security holes.
A patch is a small update that fixes a specific problem.
Updates fix security holes. They keep hackers out. If you do not update, hackers can get in.
A security hole is a weakness in software that hackers can use.
Types of updates include security updates, bug fix updates, feature updates, driver updates, and firmware updates.
Automatic updates install by themselves. Manual updates require you to click a button.
Go to Settings, click Update & Security, click Windows Update, check for updates, and install them.
Go to System Preferences, click Software Update, check for updates, and install them.
Open the Terminal and type the update and upgrade commands.
Signs include your computer asking you to update, apps crashing, slow browsers, and "Update Available" messages.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Update | A. A small update that fixes a specific problem |
| 2. Patch | B. A weakness in software that hackers can use |
| 3. Security Hole | C. A new version of software that fixes problems |
| 4. Automatic Update | D. An operating system made by Microsoft |
| 5. Windows | E. An update that installs by itself |
| 6. macOS | F. A free operating system |
| 7. Linux | G. An operating system made by Apple |
Answers: 1-C, 2-A, 3-B, 4-E, 5-D, 6-G, 7-F
Your computer is very slow. It keeps asking you to update.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: You should update your computer. Go to Settings, click Update & Security, click Windows Update, check for updates, and install them.
Your favourite app keeps crashing. You see a message saying "Update Available."
Question: What should you do?
Answer: You should update the app. Go to the app store, click Updates, and install the update.
A Nigerian bank wants to protect customer data from hackers.
Question: What should the bank do?
Answer: The bank should set up an update and patching plan. They should update all software regularly. They should install patches as soon as they are available.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class keeps software updated.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Six, you will learn about Backups and Data Recovery.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Six, think about these questions:
See you in Module Six!
End of Module Five
Welcome to Module Six of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing.
In Module Two, you learned about passwords and authentication. You learned how to create strong passwords and how to keep them safe.
In Module Three, you learned about malware and antivirus. You learned what malware is and how antivirus protects your computer.
In Module Four, you learned about safe browsing and phishing. You learned how to spot fake websites and avoid phishing emails.
In Module Five, you learned about updates and patching. You learned why updates are important and how to update your computer.
Now, in Module Six, you are going to learn about backups and data recovery.
What is a backup?
A backup is a copy of your files. You keep the copy in a safe place. If something happens to your files, you can use the backup.
What is data recovery?
Data recovery is getting your files back after they are lost, damaged, or stolen.
Imagine you have a favourite toy. You buy a second one and keep it in a safe place. If you lose the first one, you still have the second one. A backup is like that second toy.
Imagine you write a letter. You make a photocopy. If you lose the letter, you still have the photocopy. A backup is like that photocopy.
Why are backups important?
Bad things happen. Your computer can break. A virus can delete your files. A thief can steal your laptop. Ransomware can lock your files. If you have a backup, you can get your files back. If you do not have a backup, your files are gone forever.
Think about it this way. Your files are like your memories. They hold your photos, your schoolwork, your messages, and your important documents. If you lose them, you lose a part of yourself. Backups protect your memories.
In this module, you will learn all about backups and data recovery. You will learn why backups are important. You will learn about different types of backups. You will learn how to make backups. You will learn how to recover your data.
By the end of this module, you will be a backups and data recovery expert. You will know how to keep your files safe.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, there lived a woman named Mama Chioma. Mama Chioma loved her family. She had many photos of her children, her grandchildren, and her late husband.
Mama Chioma kept all her photos on her computer. She looked at them every day. They made her happy.
One day, a virus infected Mama Chioma's computer. The virus deleted all her photos. Mama Chioma was very sad. She cried for days.
Her grandson, Chidi, came to visit. He saw that Mama Chioma was sad.
"Grandmother," Chidi said, "why are you crying?"
"My photos are gone," Mama Chioma said. "All my memories of your grandfather. All my photos of you when you were a baby. They are all gone."
Chidi thought for a moment. "Grandmother," he said, "did you make a backup?"
Mama Chioma looked confused. "What is a backup?" she asked.
Chidi explained. "A backup is a copy of your files. You keep the copy in a safe place. If something happens to your files, you can use the backup."
Mama Chioma shook her head. "I did not make a backup," she said. "I did not know I needed to."
Chidi felt sad for his grandmother. "I am sorry, Grandmother," he said. "But we can learn from this. From now on, you will make backups. I will teach you."
Chidi taught Mama Chioma how to make backups. He showed her how to copy her photos to an external drive. He showed her how to save them to the cloud. He showed her how to check that the backup worked.
Mama Chioma learned a very important lesson. Backups save your memories. Backups protect your files. Backups are important.
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
A backup is a copy of your files. You keep the copy in a safe place. If something happens to your files, you can use the backup.
Bad things happen. Your computer can break. A virus can delete your files. A thief can steal your laptop. Ransomware can lock your files. If you have a backup, you can get your files back. If you do not have a backup, your files are gone forever.
Imagine you have a favourite toy. You buy a second one and keep it in a safe place. If you lose the first one, you still have the second one. A backup is like that second toy.
A company had a backup of all its files. When a virus deleted everything, they restored the files from the backup.
Your school has a backup of all student grades. When a computer broke, they restored the grades from the backup.
Your family has a backup of all photos. When the computer broke, they restored the photos from the backup.
A Nigerian business has a backup of all customer data. When a hacker attacked, they restored the data from the backup.
Backup
|
V
+-------------------+
| Original Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Copy (Backup) |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| If Files Lost, |
| Use Backup |
+-------------------+
A backup is a copy of your files. It saves you from losing everything if something happens to your computer.
Data recovery is getting your files back after they are lost, damaged, or stolen.
If you lose your files, data recovery can help you get them back. It can save your photos, your schoolwork, and your important documents.
Imagine you lose your keys. You look for them everywhere. When you find them, you are happy. Data recovery is like finding your keys. It helps you find your lost files.
A company lost files because of a computer crash. They used data recovery software to get the files back.
Your school lost student grades because of a virus. They used data recovery software to get the grades back.
Your family lost photos because of a broken hard drive. They used data recovery software to get the photos back.
A Nigerian business lost customer data because of a ransomware attack. They used data recovery software to get the data back.
Data Recovery
|
V
+-------------------+
| Files Lost |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use Recovery |
| Tools |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Files Found |
+-------------------+
Data recovery is getting your files back after they are lost, damaged, or stolen. It helps you find your lost files.
Backups are important because they protect your files from loss.
If you do not have a backup, you can lose everything. Your photos, your schoolwork, your messages, your documents. Backups keep your files safe.
Imagine you have a big project for school. You work on it for weeks. Then your computer crashes. If you have a backup, you can restore the project. If you do not have a backup, you must start again. Backups save your work.
A company lost millions of naira because they did not have a backup. A virus deleted all their files.
A student lost their final project because they did not have a backup. They had to start again.
A family lost all their holiday photos because they did not have a backup. They were very sad.
A Nigerian business lost all customer data because they did not have a backup. They lost customers and money.
Why Backups Are Important
|
V
+-------------------+
| Files at Risk |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| No Backup = |
| Lost Forever |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Backup = Safe |
+-------------------+
Backups are important because they protect your files from loss. Without a backup, you can lose everything.
There are different types of backups. Each type saves your files in a different way.
Knowing the types of backups helps you choose the best one for your needs.
Here are the main types of backups:
| Type | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Full Backup | A copy of all your files | Copying everything to an external drive |
| Incremental Backup | A copy of only the files that changed since the last backup | Copying only new photos |
| Differential Backup | A copy of all files that changed since the last full backup | Copying all photos added this week |
| Cloud Backup | A copy of your files stored on the internet | Using Google Drive or Dropbox |
A company does a full backup every Sunday. They do incremental backups every day. This saves time and space.
Your school does a full backup every term. They do incremental backups every week.
Your family does a full backup every month. They do incremental backups every week.
A Nigerian business does a full backup every week. They do incremental backups every day.
Types of Backups
|
V
+-------------------+
| Full Backup |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Incremental |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Differential |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Cloud Backup |
+-------------------+
Types of backups include full backup, incremental backup, differential backup, and cloud backup.
The 3-2-1 backup rule is a simple rule for keeping your files safe. It says: keep 3 copies of your files, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site.
The 3-2-1 rule protects you from many problems. If one copy is lost, you still have two more.
Here is what the 3-2-1 rule means:
A company follows the 3-2-1 rule. They have the original files on their computer. They have a backup on an external drive. They have another backup in the cloud.
Your school follows the 3-2-1 rule. They have the original files on the server. They have a backup on an external drive. They have another backup in the cloud.
Your family follows the 3-2-1 rule. They have the original photos on the computer. They have a backup on an external drive. They have another backup in the cloud.
A Nigerian business follows the 3-2-1 rule. They have the original data on their server. They have a backup on an external drive. They have another backup in the cloud.
The 3-2-1 Backup Rule
|
V
+-------------------+
| 3 Copies |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 2 Types of |
| Storage |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 1 Off-Site |
+-------------------+
The 3-2-1 backup rule says: keep 3 copies of your files, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site.
An external drive is a storage device that you connect to your computer. It can hold many files. You can use it for backups.
External drives are easy to use. They are fast. They can hold a lot of data. They are good for backups.
Imagine you have a big box. You can put all your toys in the box. Then you put the box in a safe place. An external drive is like that box. It holds your files. You can keep it in a safe place.
A company uses external drives for backups. They connect the drive to the computer and copy all files.
Your school uses external drives for backups. They copy student grades to the drive every week.
Your family uses an external drive for backups. They copy photos and documents to the drive every month.
A Nigerian business uses external drives for backups. They copy customer data to the drive every day.
Using External Drives
|
V
+-------------------+
| Connect Drive |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Copy Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Store Drive |
| Safely |
+-------------------+
An external drive is a storage device you connect to your computer. You can use it for backups. It holds many files.
Cloud storage is a way to store your files on the internet. You can access them from any device. You can use it for backups.
Cloud storage is safe. It is off-site. If something happens to your computer, your files are safe in the cloud. You can access them from anywhere.
Imagine you have a magic box. You can put your toys in the box. The box is in the sky. You can call the box from anywhere. It will give you your toys. Cloud storage is like that magic box.
A company uses cloud storage for backups. They save all files to the cloud. They can access them from any computer.
Your school uses cloud storage for backups. They save student grades to the cloud. They can access them from any computer.
Your family uses cloud storage for backups. They save photos to the cloud. They can access them from any phone.
A Nigerian business uses cloud storage for backups. They save customer data to the cloud. They can access it from anywhere.
Using Cloud Storage
|
V
+-------------------+
| Save to Cloud |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Access from |
| Anywhere |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Files Safe |
+-------------------+
Cloud storage is a way to store your files on the internet. You can access them from any device. It is safe and off-site.
Making a backup means copying your files to another place. It means saving them so you can get them back if something happens.
If you know how to make a backup, you can protect your files. You can save your photos, your schoolwork, and your documents.
Here is how to make a backup:
A person backs up their photos every week. They copy them to an external drive and to the cloud.
Your school backs up student grades every week. They copy them to an external drive and to the cloud.
Your family backs up photos and documents every month. They copy them to an external drive and to the cloud.
A Nigerian business backs up customer data every day. They copy it to an external drive and to the cloud.
How to Make a Backup
|
V
+-------------------+
| 1. Choose Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 2. Choose Where |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 3. Copy Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 4. Check Backup |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 5. Do Regularly |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 6. Keep Safe |
+-------------------+
To make a backup, choose what to back up, choose where to back up, copy the files, check the backup, do it regularly, and keep the backup safe.
Testing a backup means checking that your backup works. It means making sure you can restore your files.
If you do not test your backup, you do not know if it works. You might think your files are safe, but they are not.
Imagine you have a spare key for your house. You keep it in a safe place. But you never test it. What if the key does not work? You would be locked out. Testing your backup is like testing your spare key. You need to make sure it works.
A company tested their backup. They found that some files were missing. They fixed the backup. Now it works.
Your school tested their backup. They found that some grades were missing. They fixed the backup. Now it works.
Your family tested their backup. They found that some photos were missing. They fixed the backup. Now it works.
A Nigerian business tested their backup. They found that some customer data was missing. They fixed the backup. Now it works.
Testing a Backup
|
V
+-------------------+
| Open Backup |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Try to Restore |
| a File |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Does It Work? |
+-------------------+
|
+----+----+
| |
Yes No
| |
V V
+-------+ +-------+
| Good | | Fix |
+-------+ +-------+
Testing a backup means checking that your backup works. It means making sure you can restore your files.
Recovering your data means getting your files back after they are lost. It means using your backup to restore your files.
If you lose your files, you need to get them back. Data recovery helps you do that.
Here is how to recover your data:
A company lost files because of a virus. They used their backup to restore the files. They were back to work in one day.
Your school lost student grades because of a virus. They used their backup to restore the grades. They were back to work in one day.
Your family lost photos because of a broken hard drive. They used their backup to restore the photos. They were very happy.
A Nigerian business lost customer data because of a ransomware attack. They used their backup to restore the data. They were back to work in one day.
How to Recover Your Data
|
V
+-------------------+
| 1. Stay Calm |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 2. Find Backup |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 3. Connect |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 4. Copy Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 5. Check Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 6. Learn |
+-------------------+
To recover your data, stay calm, find your backup, connect it, copy the files back, check the files, and learn from the experience.
Backups and data recovery are used all over the world, including in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how backups and data recovery work in your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank lost data because of a computer crash. They used their backup to restore the data. Customers were not affected.
A Nigerian school lost student grades because of a virus. They used their backup to restore the grades. Students were not affected.
A Nigerian family lost photos because of a broken computer. They used their backup to restore the photos. They were very happy.
A Nigerian business lost customer data because of a ransomware attack. They used their backup to restore the data. They were back to work in one day.
Nigerian Backups and Data Recovery
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Back up daily, restore quickly |
| Telecoms: Back up daily, restore quickly|
| Government: Back up weekly, restore |
| Schools: Back up weekly, restore |
| Businesses: Back up daily, restore |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use backups and data recovery to stay safe.
Backups and data recovery can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game. You save your progress. If you lose, you can load your saved game. That is a backup.
You make a copy of your homework. If you lose the original, you still have the copy. That is a backup.
Your family keeps a spare key. If you lose your key, you can use the spare. That is a backup.
In a Nigerian football match, the coach has substitute players. If a player gets injured, the substitute plays. That is a backup.
Fun Backups and Data Recovery
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: Save progress |
| Football: Substitute player |
| Social Media: Save photos |
| School: Copy homework |
| Cooking: Extra ingredients |
+------------------------------------------+
Backups and data recovery are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. They save your progress and protect your files.
Backups are not just for computers. They are like things in everyday life.
When you understand backups in everyday life, you can use the ideas to stay safe.
Here are everyday examples:
You keep a spare key for your house. If you lose your key, you can use the spare. That is a backup.
You make a photocopy of your homework. If you lose the original, you still have the copy. That is a backup.
Your family keeps extra food in the house. If you run out, you can use the extra. That is a backup.
A Nigerian family keeps a spare generator. If the main generator breaks, they use the spare. That is a backup.
Everyday Backups
+------------------------------------------+
| Spare Key: For your house |
| Photocopy: For documents |
| Extra Battery: For your phone |
| Spare Tire: For your car |
| Extra Food: For your family |
+------------------------------------------+
Backups are like a spare key, a photocopy, an extra battery, a spare tire, and extra food. They protect you when something goes wrong.
A backup plan is a set of rules you follow to keep your files safe.
A plan helps you remember to back up. It helps you stay safe.
A backup plan has these parts:
A person's backup plan includes:
Your school's backup plan includes:
Your family's backup plan includes:
A Nigerian business's backup plan includes:
Backup Plan
|
V
+-------------------+
| What to Back Up |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Where to Back Up |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| When to Back Up |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| How to Back Up |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Who is Responsible|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| How to Test |
+-------------------+
A backup plan explains what to back up, where to back up, when to back up, how to back up, who is responsible, and how to test.
A case study is a real-life example that helps us learn. Let us look at a Nigerian bank.
Case studies help us see how backups and data recovery work in real life.
A Nigerian bank was attacked by ransomware. The ransomware locked all customer data. The bank did not panic. They had a backup.
Here is what they did:
After one day, the bank was back to normal. No money was paid to the hackers. No customer data was lost.
The bank learned that backups save money and protect customers.
The bank shared its success with other banks. They all started improving their backup plans.
Your school can use the same approach. Stay calm. Find the backup. Connect it. Copy the files back. Check the files. Learn.
Your family can use the same approach. Stay calm. Find the backup. Connect it. Copy the files back. Check the files. Learn.
Nigerian banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank all use similar backup strategies. They back up daily and test regularly.
Case Study: Nigerian Bank
|
V
+-------------------+
| Problem: |
| Ransomware |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Solution: Backup |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stay Calm, Find |
| Backup, Connect, |
| Copy, Check, |
| Learn |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Result: Back to |
| normal in 1 day |
+-------------------+
A Nigerian bank used a backup to recover from a ransomware attack. They stayed calm, found the backup, connected it, copied the files back, checked the files, and learned.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Backup | A copy of your files kept in a safe place |
| Data Recovery | Getting your files back after they are lost |
| Full Backup | A copy of all your files |
| Incremental Backup | A copy of only the files that changed since the last backup |
| Differential Backup | A copy of all files that changed since the last full backup |
| Cloud Backup | A copy of your files stored on the internet |
| External Drive | A storage device you connect to your computer |
| Cloud Storage | A way to store files on the internet |
| 3-2-1 Rule | Keep 3 copies, on 2 types of storage, with 1 off-site |
| Restore | Copying files from a backup back to your computer |
| Test | Checking that your backup works |
| Off-Site | In a different place |
| Ransomware | Bad software that locks your files and asks for money |
| Virus | Bad software that harms your computer |
| Hard Drive | The part of your computer that stores files |
A bank in Lagos backs up customer data every day. They keep one copy on an external drive and one copy in the cloud. When a virus attacked, they restored the data in one day.
A school in Abuja backs up student grades every week. They keep one copy on an external drive and one copy in the cloud. When a computer broke, they restored the grades in one day.
A family in Port Harcourt backs up photos every month. They keep one copy on an external drive and one copy in the cloud. When their computer broke, they restored the photos in one day.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank back up customer data every day. If something happens, they can restore the data.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel back up customer data every day. If something happens, they can restore the data.
NITDA backs up government data every week. If something happens, they can restore the data.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos back up student data every week. If something happens, they can restore the data.
Companies like Jumia and Konga back up customer data every day. If something happens, they can restore the data.
In a video game, you save your progress. If you lose, you can load your saved game. That is a backup.
In football, you have a substitute player. If a player gets injured, the substitute plays. That is a backup.
On social media, you can save your photos. If you lose your phone, you can get them back. That is a backup.
In school, you make a copy of your homework. If you lose the original, you still have the copy. That is a backup.
You keep a spare key for your house. If you lose your key, you can use the spare.
You make a photocopy of an important document. If you lose the original, you still have the copy.
You keep an extra battery for your phone. If your battery dies, you can use the extra.
You keep a spare tire in your car. If your tire gets flat, you can use the spare.
You keep extra food in the house. If you run out, you can use the extra.
+-------------------+
| Files at Risk |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Make a Backup |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Store Backup |
| Safely |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Files Lost? |
+-------------------+
|
+----+----+
| |
Yes No
| |
V V
+-------+ +-------+
|Recover| | Keep |
|Files | | Safe |
+-------+ +-------+
| |
V V
+-------------------+
| Files Safe |
+-------------------+
Day 1: Create files
|
V
Day 2: Make backup
|
V
Day 3: Store backup safely
|
V
Day 4: Test backup
|
V
Day 5: Files lost (virus)
|
V
Day 6: Recover files from backup
|
V
Day 7: Files safe again
| Backup Task | Done? |
|---|---|
| Decide what to back up | Yes / No |
| Choose where to back up | Yes / No |
| Make the backup | Yes / No |
| Test the backup | Yes / No |
| Store backup safely | Yes / No |
| Back up regularly | Yes / No |
| Review backup plan | Yes / No |
| Type | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Full Backup | A copy of all your files | Copying everything to an external drive |
| Incremental Backup | A copy of only the files that changed since the last backup | Copying only new photos |
| Differential Backup | A copy of all files that changed since the last full backup | Copying all photos added this week |
| Cloud Backup | A copy of your files stored on the internet | Using Google Drive or Dropbox |
| Feature | External Drive | Cloud Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Where is it? | With you | On the internet |
| Access from anywhere? | No | Yes |
| Risk of theft? | Yes | No |
| Risk of damage? | Yes | No |
| Cost | One-time cost | Monthly cost |
A backup is a copy of your files. It saves you from losing everything if something happens to your computer.
Data recovery is getting your files back after they are lost, damaged, or stolen. It helps you find your lost files.
Backups are important because they protect your files from loss. Without a backup, you can lose everything.
Types of backups include full backup, incremental backup, differential backup, and cloud backup.
The 3-2-1 backup rule says: keep 3 copies of your files, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site.
An external drive is a storage device you connect to your computer. You can use it for backups. It holds many files.
Cloud storage is a way to store your files on the internet. You can access them from any device. It is safe and off-site.
To make a backup, choose what to back up, choose where to back up, copy the files, check the backup, do it regularly, and keep the backup safe.
Testing a backup means checking that your backup works. It means making sure you can restore your files.
To recover your data, stay calm, find your backup, connect it, copy the files back, check the files, and learn from the experience.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use backups and data recovery to stay safe.
Backups and data recovery are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. They save your progress and protect your files.
Backups are like a spare key, a photocopy, an extra battery, a spare tire, and extra food. They protect you when something goes wrong.
A backup plan explains what to back up, where to back up, when to back up, how to back up, who is responsible, and how to test.
A Nigerian bank used a backup to recover from a ransomware attack. They stayed calm, found the backup, connected it, copied the files back, checked the files, and learned.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Six: Backups and Data Recovery.
In this module, you learned that a backup is a copy of your files. You learned that it saves you from losing everything if something happens to your computer.
You learned that data recovery is getting your files back after they are lost, damaged, or stolen.
You learned why backups are important. They protect your files from loss.
You learned about the types of backups: full backup, incremental backup, differential backup, and cloud backup.
You learned about the 3-2-1 backup rule: keep 3 copies, on 2 types of storage, with 1 off-site.
You learned how to use external drives for backups.
You learned how to use cloud storage for backups.
You learned how to make a backup.
You learned how to test a backup.
You learned how to recover your data.
You learned about Nigerian examples of backups and data recovery.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You learned how to build a backup plan.
You learned from a case study of a Nigerian bank that recovered from a ransomware attack using a backup.
You are now a Backups and Data Recovery expert in training!
A backup is a copy of your files. You keep the copy in a safe place.
Data recovery is getting your files back after they are lost, damaged, or stolen.
Backups are important because they protect your files from loss. Without a backup, you can lose everything.
Types of backups include full backup, incremental backup, differential backup, and cloud backup.
The 3-2-1 backup rule says: keep 3 copies of your files, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site.
An external drive is a storage device you connect to your computer. You can use it for backups.
Cloud storage is a way to store your files on the internet. You can access them from any device.
Choose what to back up, choose where to back up, copy the files, check the backup, do it regularly, and keep it safe.
Open the backup, choose a file, restore it, and check that it works.
Stay calm, find your backup, connect it, copy the files back, check the files, and learn from the experience.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Backup | A. A copy of only the files that changed since the last backup |
| 2. Data Recovery | B. A copy of all your files |
| 3. Full Backup | C. A copy of your files kept in a safe place |
| 4. Incremental Backup | D. Getting your files back after they are lost |
| 5. Cloud Backup | E. A copy of all files that changed since the last full backup |
| 6. Differential Backup | F. A copy of your files stored on the internet |
| 7. External Drive | G. Keep 3 copies, on 2 types of storage, with 1 off-site |
| 8. 3-2-1 Rule | H. A storage device you connect to your computer |
Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-A, 5-F, 6-E, 7-H, 8-G
You wrote a big homework assignment. Your computer crashes. You lose the homework.
Question: What should you have done?
Answer: You should have made a backup. You should have copied the homework to an external drive or to the cloud. Then you could restore it.
A hacker locks all your files with ransomware. He demands money to unlock them.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not pay the money. Use your backup to restore your files. If you have a backup, you do not need to pay.
Your computer breaks. You lose all your photos.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Use your backup to restore your photos. If you do not have a backup, you can try data recovery software. But it is better to have a backup.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class backs up their files.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Seven, you will learn about Network and Wi-Fi Security.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Seven, think about these questions:
See you in Module Seven!
End of Module Six
Welcome to Module Seven of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing.
In Module Two, you learned about passwords and authentication. You learned how to create strong passwords and how to keep them safe.
In Module Three, you learned about malware and antivirus. You learned what malware is and how antivirus protects your computer.
In Module Four, you learned about safe browsing and phishing. You learned how to spot fake websites and avoid phishing emails.
In Module Five, you learned about updates and patching. You learned why updates are important and how to update your computer.
In Module Six, you learned about backups and data recovery. You learned how to protect your files from loss.
Now, in Module Seven, you are going to learn about network and Wi-Fi security.
What is a network?
A network is a group of computers and devices that are connected together. They can share files, printers, and internet connections.
What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is a way to connect to a network without wires. It uses radio waves to send information through the air. It is like a magic invisible wire.
Imagine your house has many rooms. Each room has a telephone. The telephones are connected by wires. They can talk to each other. That is a network. Now imagine the telephones have no wires. They use invisible signals to talk. That is Wi-Fi.
Why is network and Wi-Fi security important?
Your network connects all your devices. It connects your computer, your phone, your tablet, and your smart TV. If your network is not secure, hackers can get in. They can steal your information. They can watch what you do. They can use your internet for bad things.
Think about it this way. Your network is like the front door of your house. If the door is open, anyone can walk in. If the door is locked, only you can enter. Network security is like locking the door.
In this module, you will learn all about network and Wi-Fi security. You will learn how to secure your home Wi-Fi. You will learn about Wi-Fi encryption. You will learn about public Wi-Fi risks. You will learn about firewalls.
By the end of this module, you will be a network and Wi-Fi security expert. You will know how to keep your network safe.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Abuja, Nigeria, there lived a family called the Okafors. The Okafors had a beautiful house. The house had a big gate.
Every night, Mr. Okafor locked the gate. He wanted to keep his family safe. He did not want thieves to enter.
One evening, Mr. Okafor was very tired. He forgot to lock the gate. He went to bed. The gate stayed open all night.
In the morning, Mrs. Okafor woke up. She saw that the gate was open. She was worried. She called her husband.
"Mr. Okafor," she said, "the gate is open. Did you forget to lock it?"
Mr. Okafor was shocked. "I forgot," he said. "I was very tired last night."
They checked the house. Nothing was stolen. They were lucky. But they learned a lesson. An open gate is dangerous. Anyone can enter.
That evening, Mr. Okafor called his children, Ada and Chidi. He told them what happened.
"My children," he said, "our gate is like our Wi-Fi. If we do not lock our Wi-Fi, anyone can enter. They can use our internet. They can see our information. They can do bad things."
Ada was confused. "How do we lock our Wi-Fi?" she asked.
Mr. Okafor smiled. "We use a strong password," he said. "We use encryption. We change the router settings. We do not share the password with strangers."
Chidi nodded. "So our Wi-Fi is like our gate," he said. "We must always lock it."
"Exactly," Mr. Okafor said. "Always lock your gate. Always lock your Wi-Fi."
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
A network is a group of computers and devices that are connected together. They can share files, printers, and internet connections.
Networks help us share things. We can share files. We can share printers. We can share internet. Networks make our lives easier.
Imagine your house has many rooms. Each room has a telephone. The telephones are connected by wires. They can talk to each other. That is a network.
A company has many computers. They are connected together. They can share files and printers. That is a network.
Your school has many computers. They are connected together. They can share files and printers. That is a network.
Your home has many devices. Your computer, your phone, and your smart TV are connected together. They can share internet. That is a network.
A Nigerian bank has many computers. They are connected together. They can share customer data. That is a network.
What is a Network?
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computers and |
| Devices |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Connected |
| Together |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Share Files, |
| Printers, Internet|
+-------------------+
A network is a group of computers and devices that are connected together. They can share files, printers, and internet connections.
Wi-Fi is a way to connect to a network without wires. It uses radio waves to send information through the air. It is like a magic invisible wire.
Wi-Fi lets you connect to the internet without wires. You can move around. You can use your devices anywhere in your house. Wi-Fi is convenient.
Imagine you have a magic invisible wire. You can connect your computer to the internet without plugging anything in. That is Wi-Fi.
A cafe offers free Wi-Fi. Customers can connect their phones and laptops to the internet.
Your school has Wi-Fi. Students and teachers can connect their devices to the internet.
Your home has Wi-Fi. Your family can connect their phones, tablets, and computers to the internet.
A Nigerian hotel offers free Wi-Fi. Guests can connect their devices to the internet.
What is Wi-Fi?
|
V
+-------------------+
| No Wires |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Radio Waves |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Connect to |
| Internet |
+-------------------+
Wi-Fi is a way to connect to a network without wires. It uses radio waves to send information through the air.
Network and Wi-Fi security means keeping your network and Wi-Fi safe from hackers. It means protecting your devices and your information.
If your network is not secure, hackers can get in. They can steal your information. They can watch what you do. They can use your internet for bad things.
Imagine your network is like the front door of your house. If the door is open, anyone can walk in. If the door is locked, only you can enter. Network security is like locking the door.
A company did not secure its network. A hacker got in and stole customer data. The company lost millions of naira.
Your school did not secure its Wi-Fi. A hacker got in and changed student grades. The school had to fix the problem.
Your family did not secure the Wi-Fi. A neighbour used the internet for free. The internet was very slow.
A Nigerian business did not secure its network. A fraudster got in and stole customer data. The business lost customers and money.
Why Network and Wi-Fi Security Matters
|
V
+-------------------+
| Network at Risk |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Can |
| Enter |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data, |
| Money, Privacy |
+-------------------+
Network and Wi-Fi security matters because it protects your devices and your information from hackers.
A home network has several parts. Each part does something different.
Knowing the parts of your network helps you secure it. You can see where the dangers are.
Here are the main parts of a home network:
| Part | What It Does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Router | Connects your devices to the internet | Wi-Fi router |
| Modem | Connects your router to the internet service provider | Cable modem |
| Devices | Computers, phones, tablets, smart TVs | Your laptop |
| Wi-Fi | Wireless connection to the router | Your home Wi-Fi |
| Firewall | Blocks bad connections | Router firewall |
A company has a router, a modem, many devices, Wi-Fi, and a firewall. All these parts work together.
Your school has a router, a modem, many devices, Wi-Fi, and a firewall. All these parts work together.
Your home has a router, a modem, many devices, Wi-Fi, and a firewall. All these parts work together.
A Nigerian business has a router, a modem, many devices, Wi-Fi, and a firewall. All these parts work together.
Parts of a Home Network
|
V
+-------------------+
| Router |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Modem |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Devices |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Firewall |
+-------------------+
The main parts of a home network are the router, the modem, the devices, Wi-Fi, and the firewall.
Securing your home Wi-Fi router means making it safe from hackers. It means locking the door to your network.
If your router is not secure, hackers can get in. They can steal your information. They can use your internet for bad things.
Here is how to secure your home Wi-Fi router:
A company changed the default router password. They used WPA3 encryption. Their network is safe.
Your school changed the default router password. They used WPA2 encryption. Their network is safe.
Your family changed the default router password. They used WPA2 encryption. Their network is safe.
A Nigerian business changed the default router password. They used WPA3 encryption. Their network is safe.
Securing Your Home Wi-Fi Router
|
V
+-------------------+
| Change Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use WPA2/WPA3 |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Change SSID |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Turn Off WPS |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Firmware |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Turn Off Remote |
| Access |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use Firewall |
+-------------------+
To secure your home Wi-Fi router, change the default password, use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, change the SSID, turn off WPS, update firmware, turn off remote access, and use a firewall.
Wi-Fi encryption scrambles the information sent over your Wi-Fi. It makes it hard for hackers to read. WPA2 and WPA3 are types of encryption.
Without encryption, anyone can read your information. With encryption, hackers cannot read it. Encryption keeps your information safe.
Imagine you are sending a letter. If you send it without an envelope, anyone can read it. If you send it with a sealed envelope, only the person you sent it to can read it. Wi-Fi encryption is like the sealed envelope.
A company uses WPA3 encryption. Hackers cannot read their information.
Your school uses WPA2 encryption. Hackers cannot read student information.
Your family uses WPA2 encryption. Hackers cannot read your information.
A Nigerian bank uses WPA3 encryption. Hackers cannot read customer information.
Wi-Fi Encryption
|
V
+-------------------+
| Scrambles Info |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Cannot |
| Read It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Information Safe |
+-------------------+
Wi-Fi encryption scrambles your information so hackers cannot read it. WPA2 and WPA3 are types of encryption. Always use WPA2 or WPA3.
Public Wi-Fi is a wireless internet connection that anyone can use. It is found in cafes, airports, hotels, and libraries.
Public Wi-Fi is not always safe. Hackers can spy on what you do. They can steal your passwords and your information.
Imagine you are talking to your friend in a crowded room. Anyone can hear what you are saying. Public Wi-Fi is like that crowded room. Anyone can see what you are doing. Hackers can listen to your information.
A person used public Wi-Fi at a cafe. A hacker stole their password. The hacker accessed their bank account.
A student used public Wi-Fi at a library. A hacker stole their school password. The hacker changed their grades.
A family member used public Wi-Fi at an airport. A hacker stole their email password. The hacker sent fake emails to their friends.
A Nigerian business traveller used public Wi-Fi at a hotel. A hacker stole their bank details. The hacker stole money from their account.
Public Wi-Fi Risks
|
V
+-------------------+
| Public Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Hackers Can Spy |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| They Steal Your |
| Information |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Lose Data |
+-------------------+
Public Wi-Fi is not always safe. Hackers can spy on what you do. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking.
Staying safe on public Wi-Fi means taking steps to protect your information when you use public networks.
If you do not protect yourself, hackers can steal your information. You can lose money and privacy.
Here is how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi:
A person used a VPN on public Wi-Fi. The VPN scrambled their information. Hackers could not read it.
A student used HTTPS websites on public Wi-Fi. Their information was safe.
A family member turned off file sharing on public Wi-Fi. Hackers could not access their files.
A Nigerian business traveller used a VPN on public Wi-Fi. Their bank details were safe.
Staying Safe on Public Wi-Fi
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use a VPN |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use HTTPS |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| No Banking |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Log Out |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stay Safe |
+-------------------+
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi by using a VPN, using HTTPS, avoiding banking, and logging out when done.
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
A firewall stops hackers from entering your computer. It also stops malware from sending your information out.
Imagine a wall around your house. The wall has a gate. The gate only opens for people you trust. A firewall is like that wall. It only lets safe things in and out.
A bank uses a firewall to protect its network. The firewall blocks millions of bad connections every day.
Your school uses a firewall to protect its computers. It blocks students from visiting bad websites.
Your family uses a firewall on the home Wi-Fi. It blocks hackers from entering.
A Nigerian company uses a firewall to protect its data. It blocks fraudsters from entering the network.
Firewall
|
V
+-------------------+
| The Wall |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Blocks Bad |
| Connections |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Lets Good |
| Connections In |
+-------------------+
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
A firewall works by checking every connection. It decides if the connection is safe or dangerous.
Knowing how a firewall works helps you understand why it is important. It helps you use it correctly.
A firewall works in three main ways:
A company's firewall uses packet filtering. It blocks bad packets from entering the network.
Your school's firewall uses stateful inspection. It remembers safe connections.
Your family's firewall uses application filtering. It blocks bad programs.
A Nigerian bank's firewall uses all three methods. It blocks bad connections and bad programs.
How a Firewall Works
|
V
+-------------------+
| Packet Filtering |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stateful |
| Inspection |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Application |
| Filtering |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Blocks Bad |
| Connections |
+-------------------+
A firewall works by checking connections, remembering safe connections, and filtering programs. It blocks bad connections.
Network and Wi-Fi security are used all over the world, including in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how network and Wi-Fi security work in your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank secures its network with a firewall and WPA3 encryption. Hackers cannot get in.
A Nigerian school secures its Wi-Fi with WPA2 encryption. Hackers cannot get in.
A Nigerian family secures its Wi-Fi with a strong password. Neighbours cannot use their internet.
A Nigerian business secures its network with a firewall. Fraudsters cannot get in.
Nigerian Network and Wi-Fi Security
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Firewalls, encryption |
| Telecoms: Encryption, firewalls |
| Government: Firewalls, encryption |
| Schools: WPA2 encryption |
| Businesses: Firewalls, encryption |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use network and Wi-Fi security to stay safe.
Network and Wi-Fi security can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game. You have a shield that blocks enemy attacks. A firewall is like that shield.
Your school has a security guard at the gate. He stops bad people from entering. A firewall is like that guard.
Your family has a mosquito net over the bed. It keeps mosquitoes away. Encryption is like that net.
In a Nigerian football match, the goalkeeper stops the ball. A firewall stops bad connections.
Fun Network and Wi-Fi Security
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: Shield against enemies |
| Football: Goalkeeper stops ball |
| Social Media: Block bad posts |
| School: Security guard stops bad people |
| Cooking: Cover keeps flies away |
+------------------------------------------+
Network and Wi-Fi security are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. A firewall is like a shield or a guard.
Network security is not just for computers. It is like things in everyday life.
When you understand network security in everyday life, you can use the ideas to stay safe.
Here are everyday examples:
You lock your gate to keep thieves out. You lock your Wi-Fi to keep hackers out.
You do not talk to strangers at school. You do not share your Wi-Fi password with strangers.
You use a mosquito net to keep mosquitoes away. You use encryption to keep hackers away.
A Nigerian family locks their gate at night. They also lock their Wi-Fi with a strong password.
Everyday Network Security
+------------------------------------------+
| Lock Gate: Keep thieves out |
| Mosquito Net: Keep mosquitoes away |
| Check Visitors: Firewall checks |
| Keep Secrets: Do not share password |
| Seatbelt: VPN for safety |
+------------------------------------------+
Network security is like locking your gate, using a mosquito net, checking visitors, keeping secrets, and wearing a seatbelt.
A network security plan is a set of rules you follow to keep your network safe.
A plan helps you remember what to do. It helps you stay safe.
A network security plan has these parts:
A person's network security plan includes:
Your school's network security plan includes:
Your family's network security plan includes:
A Nigerian business's network security plan includes:
Network Security Plan
|
V
+-------------------+
| Router |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Firewall |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Updates |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Public Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Review |
+-------------------+
A network security plan explains how to secure your router, Wi-Fi, firewall, updates, and public Wi-Fi use. It also says when to review.
A case study is a real-life example that helps us learn. Let us look at a Nigerian school.
Case studies help us see how network and Wi-Fi security work in real life.
A Nigerian school noticed that its Wi-Fi was very slow. Students were complaining. The school investigated.
They found that strangers were using the school's Wi-Fi. The Wi-Fi password was weak. The router still had the default password. The encryption was old.
The school decided to improve its Wi-Fi security. Here is what they did:
After one month, the school saw results:
The school learned that network and Wi-Fi security are important.
The school shared its success with other schools. They all started improving their Wi-Fi security.
Your school can use the same approach. Change the default password. Use WPA2. Create a network security plan.
Your family can use the same approach. Change the default password. Use WPA2. Create a network security plan.
Nigerian schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos all use similar network security strategies.
Case Study: Nigerian School
|
V
+-------------------+
| Problem: Slow |
| Wi-Fi |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Solution: Secure |
| the Network |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Change Password, |
| WPA2, Firewall, |
| Updates, Plan |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Result: Fast |
| Wi-Fi, safe data |
+-------------------+
A Nigerian school secured its Wi-Fi by changing passwords, using WPA2, turning on the firewall, updating firmware, and creating a plan. The Wi-Fi became faster and safer.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Network | A group of computers and devices connected together |
| Wi-Fi | A way to connect to a network without wires |
| Router | A device that connects your devices to the internet |
| Modem | A device that connects your router to the internet service provider |
| SSID | The name of your Wi-Fi network |
| Encryption | Scrambling information so hackers cannot read it |
| WPA2 | A type of Wi-Fi encryption |
| WPA3 | A newer type of Wi-Fi encryption |
| WPS | A feature that makes it easy to connect, but is easy to hack |
| Firewall | Software or hardware that blocks bad connections |
| Public Wi-Fi | Wireless internet that anyone can use |
| VPN | Virtual Private Network - scrambles your information |
| HTTPS | A way to send information safely over the internet |
| Firmware | Software built into a device |
| Default Password | The password that comes with a device |
A bank in Lagos secures its network with a firewall and WPA3 encryption. They change default passwords. They update firmware. Their network is safe from hackers.
A school in Abuja secures its Wi-Fi with WPA2 encryption. They change default passwords. They turn on the firewall. Their Wi-Fi is safe from hackers.
A family in Port Harcourt secures its Wi-Fi with a strong password. They use WPA2 encryption. They turn on the firewall. Their Wi-Fi is safe.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank secure their networks with firewalls and encryption. They protect customer data.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel secure their networks with encryption and firewalls. They protect customer data.
NITDA secures its networks with firewalls and encryption. They protect government data.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos secure their Wi-Fi with WPA2 encryption. They protect student data.
Companies like Jumia and Konga secure their networks with firewalls and encryption. They protect customer data.
In a video game, you have a shield to protect your character. A firewall is like a shield for your network.
In football, the goalkeeper stops the ball. A firewall stops bad connections.
On social media, you block people who post bad things. A firewall blocks bad connections.
In school, the security guard stops bad people from entering. A firewall stops bad connections.
You lock your gate to keep thieves out. You lock your Wi-Fi to keep hackers out.
You use a mosquito net to keep mosquitoes away. You use encryption to keep hackers away.
You check who comes to your house. A firewall checks what comes to your network.
You do not tell strangers your secrets. You do not share your Wi-Fi password.
You wear a seatbelt to stay safe in a car. You use a VPN to stay safe online.
+-------------------+
| Router |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Change Password |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use WPA2/WPA3 |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Change SSID |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Turn Off WPS |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Update Firmware |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Turn On Firewall |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Network Safe |
+-------------------+
Day 1: Get new router
|
V
Day 2: Change default password
|
V
Day 3: Use WPA2/WPA3 encryption
|
V
Day 4: Change SSID
|
V
Day 5: Turn off WPS
|
V
Day 6: Update firmware
|
V
Day 7: Turn on firewall
|
V
Day 8: Network safe
| Security Task | Done? |
|---|---|
| Changed default router password | Yes / No |
| Using WPA2 or WPA3 encryption | Yes / No |
| Changed SSID | Yes / No |
| Turned off WPS | Yes / No |
| Updated router firmware | Yes / No |
| Turned on firewall | Yes / No |
| Using a VPN on public Wi-Fi | Yes / No |
| Feature | WPA2 | WPA3 |
|---|---|---|
| Created | 2004 | 2018 |
| Security | Good | Better |
| Password protection | Good | Stronger |
| Recommendation | Use if WPA3 not available | Use if available |
| Feature | Public Wi-Fi | Home Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Who can use it? | Anyone | Only you |
| Security | Not safe | Safe if secured |
| Encryption | Maybe not | WPA2/WPA3 |
| Recommendation | Use VPN, no banking | Safe for banking |
A network is a group of computers and devices that are connected together. They can share files, printers, and internet connections.
Wi-Fi is a way to connect to a network without wires. It uses radio waves to send information through the air.
Network and Wi-Fi security matters because it protects your devices and your information from hackers.
The main parts of a home network are the router, the modem, the devices, Wi-Fi, and the firewall.
To secure your home Wi-Fi router, change the default password, use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, change the SSID, turn off WPS, update firmware, turn off remote access, and use a firewall.
Wi-Fi encryption scrambles your information so hackers cannot read it. WPA2 and WPA3 are types of encryption. Always use WPA2 or WPA3.
Public Wi-Fi is not always safe. Hackers can spy on what you do. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking.
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi by using a VPN, using HTTPS, avoiding banking, and logging out when done.
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
A firewall works by checking connections, remembering safe connections, and filtering programs. It blocks bad connections.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use network and Wi-Fi security to stay safe.
Network and Wi-Fi security are everywhere. They are in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. A firewall is like a shield or a guard.
Network security is like locking your gate, using a mosquito net, checking visitors, keeping secrets, and wearing a seatbelt.
A network security plan explains how to secure your router, Wi-Fi, firewall, updates, and public Wi-Fi use. It also says when to review.
A Nigerian school secured its Wi-Fi by changing passwords, using WPA2, turning on the firewall, updating firmware, and creating a plan. The Wi-Fi became faster and safer.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Seven: Network and Wi-Fi Security.
In this module, you learned that a network is a group of computers and devices that are connected together.
You learned that Wi-Fi is a way to connect to a network without wires.
You learned why network and Wi-Fi security matters. It protects your devices and your information.
You learned about the parts of a home network: the router, the modem, the devices, Wi-Fi, and the firewall.
You learned how to secure your home Wi-Fi router.
You learned about Wi-Fi encryption: WPA2 and WPA3.
You learned about public Wi-Fi risks.
You learned how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi.
You learned about firewalls and how they work.
You learned about Nigerian examples of network and Wi-Fi security.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You learned how to build a network security plan.
You learned from a case study of a Nigerian school that secured its Wi-Fi.
You are now a Network and Wi-Fi Security expert in training!
A network is a group of computers and devices that are connected together. They can share files, printers, and internet connections.
Wi-Fi is a way to connect to a network without wires. It uses radio waves to send information through the air.
It protects your devices and your information from hackers.
The main parts are the router, the modem, the devices, Wi-Fi, and the firewall.
Change the default password, use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, change the SSID, turn off WPS, update firmware, turn off remote access, and use a firewall.
Wi-Fi encryption scrambles your information so hackers cannot read it. WPA2 and WPA3 are types of encryption.
Hackers can spy on what you do. They can steal your passwords and your information.
Use a VPN, use HTTPS, avoid banking, and log out when done.
A firewall is software or hardware that blocks bad things from coming into your computer. It is like a wall around your computer.
A firewall works by checking connections, remembering safe connections, and filtering programs. It blocks bad connections.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Network | A. A way to connect to a network without wires |
| 2. Wi-Fi | B. Software or hardware that blocks bad connections |
| 3. Router | C. A group of computers and devices connected together |
| 4. Encryption | D. A device that connects your devices to the internet |
| 5. Firewall | E. Scrambling information so hackers cannot read it |
| 6. VPN | F. A newer type of Wi-Fi encryption |
| 7. WPA3 | G. Virtual Private Network - scrambles your information |
Answers: 1-C, 2-A, 3-D, 4-E, 5-B, 6-G, 7-F
Your home Wi-Fi is very slow. You think someone is using it without permission.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Change your Wi-Fi password to a strong one. Check who is connected to your router. Make sure your router is secure.
You are at a cafe. You want to check your bank account. The cafe has free Wi-Fi.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Do not do banking on public Wi-Fi. Hackers can spy on you. Wait until you are on a secure network. Or use a VPN.
You just got a new Wi-Fi router. It has a default password.
Question: What should you do?
Answer: Change the default password. Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Change the SSID. Turn off WPS. Update the firmware. Turn on the firewall.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class secures their networks.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Eight, you will learn about Incident Response for Your PC.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Eight, think about these questions:
See you in Module Eight!
End of Module Seven
Welcome to Module Eight of the PC Security Fundamentals course!
In Module One, you learned what PC security is and why it matters. You learned about hackers, malware, viruses, and phishing.
In Module Two, you learned about passwords and authentication. You learned how to create strong passwords and how to keep them safe.
In Module Three, you learned about malware and antivirus. You learned what malware is and how antivirus protects your computer.
In Module Four, you learned about safe browsing and phishing. You learned how to spot fake websites and avoid phishing emails.
In Module Five, you learned about updates and patching. You learned why updates are important and how to update your computer.
In Module Six, you learned about backups and data recovery. You learned how to protect your files from loss.
In Module Seven, you learned about network and Wi-Fi security. You learned how to secure your home network.
Now, in Module Eight, you are going to learn about incident response for your PC.
What is an incident?
An incident is something bad that happens. In cyber security, an incident is when a hacker breaks in, a virus infects a computer, or data is stolen.
What is incident response?
Incident response is what we do when an incident happens. It is our plan for dealing with the problem. It is how we detect the incident, stop it, fix it, and recover.
Imagine you are playing a football match. Suddenly, the other team scores a goal. That is an incident. What do you do? You do not panic. You follow your plan. You might change your tactics. You might substitute a player. You might encourage your team. That is incident response.
In cyber security, incident response is the same. When a hacker attacks, we do not panic. We follow our plan. We detect the attack. We stop the attack. We fix the damage. We recover. We learn from what happened.
Why is incident response important?
Bad things happen. Your computer can get a virus. A hacker can break in. Your files can be stolen. If you have a plan, you can handle the incident calmly. If you do not have a plan, you will panic. You might make mistakes. You might lose everything.
Think about it this way. Your computer is like a house. An incident is like a fire. If you have a fire plan, you know what to do. You call the fire service. You leave the house. You stay calm. Incident response is like a fire plan for your computer.
In this module, you will learn all about incident response for your PC. You will learn what an incident is. You will learn the signs of an incident. You will learn the steps to take. You will learn how to recover. You will learn how to learn from the incident.
By the end of this module, you will be an incident response expert. You will know how to handle any cyber incident.
Let us begin this exciting journey together!
After completing this module, you will be able to:
Once upon a time, in the city of Ibadan, Nigeria, there was a school called Green Valley Academy. The school had many buildings. It had many students. It had many teachers.
One day, the principal, Mrs. Adebayo, called a meeting. She said, "We need a fire plan. If there is a fire, we need to know what to do."
The teachers and students made a plan. They decided:
They practiced the plan every month. They called it a fire drill.
One day, a fire started in the science laboratory. The alarm sounded. The students and teachers did not panic. They followed the plan. They lined up. They walked to the field. The teachers counted the students. Everyone was safe.
The fire service came. They put out the fire. They said, "You did a great job. Your fire plan saved lives."
Mrs. Adebayo called an assembly. She said, "Today, we faced an incident. But we were prepared. We had a plan. We followed the plan. We stayed calm. We survived."
That evening, Mrs. Adebayo told her own children, "Preparation is key. If you prepare for an incident, you can handle it. If you do not prepare, you will panic."
Her children understood. They decided to make a plan for their own computer incidents.
And that is exactly what you will learn in this module.
An incident is something bad that happens. In cyber security, an incident is when a hacker breaks in, a virus infects a computer, or data is stolen.
If you do not know what an incident is, you cannot respond to it. Knowing what an incident is helps you prepare.
Imagine you are riding your bike. Suddenly, the tire goes flat. That is an incident. It is something bad that happened. You need to fix it. In cyber security, an incident is the same. It is something bad that happened to your computer.
A bank has an incident when a hacker steals customer money. A hospital has an incident when a virus locks patient records.
Your school has an incident when a computer gets a virus. Your school has an incident when someone hacks the school website.
Your home has an incident when your Wi-Fi is hacked. Your home has an incident when your phone gets a virus.
A Nigerian bank has an incident when fraudsters steal money. A Nigerian telecom has an incident when fake SIM cards are used.
What is an Incident?
|
V
+-------------------+
| Something Bad |
| Happens |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Harm is Caused |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Need to |
| Respond |
+-------------------+
An incident is something bad that happens. In cyber security, it is when a hacker breaks in, a virus infects a computer, or data is stolen.
Incident response is what we do when an incident happens. It is our plan for dealing with the problem. It is how we detect the incident, stop it, fix it, and recover.
If you do not have a plan, you will panic. If you panic, you might make mistakes. A good incident response plan helps you stay calm and fix the problem quickly.
Imagine there is a fire in your house. What do you do? You do not panic. You follow your fire plan. You call the fire service. You leave the house. You stay calm. Incident response is the same. It is your plan for dealing with cyber incidents.
A bank has an incident response plan. When a hacker attacks, they follow the plan. They detect the attack. They stop the attack. They fix the damage. They recover. They learn.
Your school has an incident response plan. When a virus infects the computers, they follow the plan. They disconnect the computers. They remove the virus. They restore the files. They learn.
Your family has an incident response plan. When your Wi-Fi is hacked, they follow the plan. They change the password. They check the devices. They learn.
A Nigerian bank has an incident response plan. When fraudsters attack, they follow the plan. They block the transactions. They alert customers. They recover the money. They learn.
What is Incident Response?
|
V
+-------------------+
| Incident Happens |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Follow the Plan |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Detect, Stop, |
| Fix, Recover |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Learn and Improve|
+-------------------+
Incident response is what we do when an incident happens. It is our plan for dealing with the problem.
Incident response has several phases. Each phase is a step in the process.
If you follow the phases, you can handle any incident. You will not forget anything. You will not panic.
Here are the phases of incident response:
| Phase | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Get ready before an incident happens |
| 2. Detection | Notice that an incident has happened |
| 3. Containment | Stop the incident from spreading |
| 4. Eradication | Remove the cause of the incident |
| 5. Recovery | Restore normal operations |
| 6. Learning | Learn from the incident and improve |
A bank follows these phases. They prepare by training staff. They detect attacks using monitoring tools. They contain attacks by disconnecting systems. They eradicate attacks by removing malware. They recover by restoring data. They learn by writing reports.
Your school follows these phases. They prepare by teaching students. They detect viruses using antivirus. They contain viruses by disconnecting computers. They eradicate viruses by cleaning them. They recover by restoring files. They learn by writing reports.
Your family follows these phases. They prepare by using strong passwords. They detect problems by checking devices. They contain problems by disconnecting from Wi-Fi. They eradicate problems by removing viruses. They recover by restoring data. They learn by talking about what happened.
A Nigerian bank follows these phases. They prepare by training staff. They detect fraud using monitoring tools. They contain fraud by blocking transactions. They eradicate fraud by removing the fraudster. They recover by returning money. They learn by writing reports.
Phases of Incident Response
|
V
+-------------------+
| 1. Preparation |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 2. Detection |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 3. Containment |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 4. Eradication |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 5. Recovery |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 6. Learning |
+-------------------+
Incident response has six phases: preparation, detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and learning.
Preparation is getting ready before an incident happens. It is the first phase of incident response.
If you are not prepared, you will panic. If you are prepared, you can handle the incident calmly.
Imagine you are going on a trip. You pack your bags. You check the weather. You plan your route. That is preparation. In cyber security, preparation means having a plan, training people, and using good tools.
A bank prepares by training staff, installing firewalls, and making backups. They also practice incident response drills.
Your school prepares by teaching students about cyber security, installing antivirus, and making backups.
Your family prepares by using strong passwords, updating software, and making backups.
A Nigerian bank prepares by training staff, using fraud detection tools, and making backups.
Preparation
|
V
+-------------------+
| Make a Plan |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Train People |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Use Good Tools |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Practice Drills |
+-------------------+
Preparation is getting ready before an incident happens. It means having a plan, training people, and using good tools.
Detection is noticing that an incident has happened. It is the second phase of incident response.
The faster you detect an incident, the faster you can respond. If you do not detect it, the damage can get worse.
Imagine you are in a room and you smell smoke. You detect that there is a fire. If you did not smell the smoke, you might not know about the fire. In cyber security, detection means noticing that something is wrong.
A bank detects an attack when their monitoring tools alert them. They also detect attacks when customers report fraud.
Your school detects a virus when antivirus software alerts them. They also detect a virus when computers start acting strangely.
Your family detects a problem when the Wi-Fi is slow. They also detect a problem when they receive strange messages.
A Nigerian bank detects fraud when their monitoring tools alert them. They also detect fraud when customers call to report strange transactions.
Detection
|
V
+-------------------+
| Something is |
| Wrong |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Notice It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Confirm It |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| You Report It |
+-------------------+
Detection is noticing that an incident has happened. The faster you detect it, the faster you can respond.
Containment is stopping the incident from spreading. It is the third phase of incident response.
If you do not contain the incident, it can spread and cause more damage. Containment limits the damage.
Imagine there is a fire in one room. You close the door to stop the fire from spreading to other rooms. That is containment. In cyber security, containment means stopping the attack from spreading to other computers.
A bank contains an attack by disconnecting affected computers from the network. They also block the hacker's access.
Your school contains a virus by disconnecting infected computers from the network. They also stop students from using those computers.
Your family contains a problem by disconnecting from Wi-Fi. They also change the Wi-Fi password.
A Nigerian bank contains fraud by blocking the fraudster's account. They also stop all transactions from that account.
Containment
|
V
+-------------------+
| Incident Happens |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Stop It From |
| Spreading |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Disconnect, Block|
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Limit the Damage |
+-------------------+
Containment is stopping the incident from spreading. It limits the damage.
Eradication is removing the cause of the incident. It is the fourth phase of incident response.
If you do not remove the cause, the incident can happen again. Eradication fixes the problem.
Imagine you have weeds in your garden. You pull them out. That is eradication. In cyber security, eradication means removing the virus, deleting the malware, or fixing the weakness.
A bank eradicates an attack by removing the malware from their computers. They also fix the weakness that allowed the attack.
Your school eradicates a virus by cleaning the infected computers. They also update the antivirus software.
Your family eradicates a problem by removing the virus from your phone. They also update the phone's software.
A Nigerian bank eradicates fraud by closing the fraudster's account. They also improve their fraud detection system.
Eradication
|
V
+-------------------+
| Find the Cause |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Remove the Cause |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Fix the Weakness |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Prevent It From |
| Happening Again |
+-------------------+
Eradication is removing the cause of the incident. It fixes the problem and prevents it from happening again.
Recovery is restoring normal operations. It is the fifth phase of incident response.
After an incident, you need to get back to normal. Recovery helps you do that.
Imagine you were sick. You took medicine. Now you need to rest and get better. That is recovery. In cyber security, recovery means restoring files, fixing computers, and getting back to work.
A bank recovers by restoring data from backups. They also check that all systems are working properly.
Your school recovers by restoring files from backups. They also check that all computers are working.
Your family recovers by restoring data from backups. They also check that all devices are working.
A Nigerian bank recovers by returning money to customers. They also check that all systems are working.
Recovery
|
V
+-------------------+
| Restore Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Fix Computers |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Check Systems |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Get Back to Work |
+-------------------+
Recovery is restoring normal operations. It means restoring files, fixing computers, and getting back to work.
Learning is studying the incident and improving. It is the sixth phase of incident response.
If you do not learn from an incident, it can happen again. Learning helps you get better.
Imagine you failed a test. You study the questions you got wrong. You learn from your mistake. That is learning. In cyber security, learning means writing a report, finding out what went wrong, and improving.
A bank learns from an incident by writing a report. They find out how the hacker got in. They improve their security.
Your school learns from an incident by writing a report. They find out how the virus got in. They teach students about it.
Your family learns from an incident by talking about it. They find out how the problem happened. They change their habits.
A Nigerian bank learns from an incident by writing a report. They find out how the fraud happened. They improve their fraud detection system.
Learning
|
V
+-------------------+
| Write a Report |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Find Out What |
| Went Wrong |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Improve |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Prevent It From |
| Happening Again |
+-------------------+
Learning is studying the incident and improving. It helps prevent the incident from happening again.
Signs of an infection are things you notice when your computer has malware. They tell you something is wrong.
If you know the signs, you can detect an incident early. You can remove the malware before it causes more damage.
Here are signs your computer is infected:
A person noticed their computer was very slow. They ran an antivirus scan. It found a virus. They removed it.
A school noticed pop-up ads on all computers. They ran an antivirus scan. It found adware. They removed it.
A family noticed their photos were missing. They ran an antivirus scan. It found a virus. They restored from backup.
A Nigerian business noticed its computers were crashing often. They ran an antivirus scan. It found ransomware. They restored from backup.
Signs Your Computer is Infected
|
V
+-------------------+
| Slow Computer |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Pop-Up Ads |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Missing Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Frequent Crashes |
+-------------------+
Signs your computer is infected include a slow computer, pop-up ads, missing files, frequent crashes, and antivirus problems.
Steps to take means what you should do when you notice an infection. It means following the incident response phases.
If you know the steps, you can handle the infection calmly. You can remove the malware and recover your files.
Here are the steps to take when your computer is infected:
A person's computer was infected. They disconnected from the internet. They ran an antivirus scan. They removed the malware. They changed their passwords. They restored their files.
A school's computers were infected. They disconnected from the internet. They ran an antivirus scan. They removed the malware. They changed passwords. They restored files.
A family's computer was infected. They disconnected from the internet. They ran an antivirus scan. They removed the malware. They changed passwords. They restored files.
A Nigerian business's computers were infected. They disconnected from the internet. They ran an antivirus scan. They removed the malware. They changed passwords. They restored files.
Steps to Take When Your Computer is Infected
|
V
+-------------------+
| 1. Stay Calm |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 2. Disconnect |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 3. Scan |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 4. Remove |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 5. Restart |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 6. Change |
| Passwords |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 7. Restore Files |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| 8. Learn |
+-------------------+
When your computer is infected, stay calm, disconnect from the internet, run an antivirus scan, remove the malware, restart, change passwords, restore files, and learn from the incident.
Calling a professional means asking an expert for help. It means knowing when the problem is too big for you.
Some incidents are very serious. You might not be able to fix them alone. A professional can help.
Here is when to call a professional:
A person's computer was infected with ransomware. They could not remove it. They called a professional. The professional removed the ransomware.
A school's computers were infected with a virus. They could not remove it. They called a professional. The professional removed the virus.
A family's computer would not start. They called a professional. The professional fixed it.
A Nigerian business's data was locked by ransomware. They called a professional. The professional recovered the data.
When to Call a Professional
|
V
+-------------------+
| Cannot Remove |
| Malware |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Files Locked |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Computer Won't |
| Start |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Data Lost |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Call Professional|
+-------------------+
Call a professional when you cannot remove malware, when files are locked, when your computer will not start, when data is lost, or when you are not sure what to do.
Incident response is used all over the world, including in Nigeria. Here are some Nigerian examples.
Seeing examples from Nigeria helps you understand how incident response works in your own country.
Here are some Nigerian examples:
A Nigerian bank might report: "Last month, we detected a fraud incident in 10 minutes. We contained it in 30 minutes. We eradicated it in 1 hour. We recovered in 4 hours. We learned and improved."
A Nigerian school might report: "Last term, we detected a virus in 20 minutes. We contained it in 1 hour. We eradicated it in 2 hours. We recovered in 5 hours. We learned and improved."
A Nigerian family might report: "Last month, we detected a Wi-Fi problem in 1 hour. We contained it in 2 hours. We eradicated it in 3 hours. We recovered in 1 day. We learned and improved."
NITDA might report: "Last year, we detected 100 attacks. We contained 95. We eradicated 95. We recovered 95. We learned and improved."
Nigerian Incident Response
+------------------------------------------+
| Banks: Fraud response |
| Telecoms: SIM fraud response |
| Government: Cyber attack response |
| Schools: Data breach response |
| Businesses: Fake order response |
+------------------------------------------+
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use incident response to stay safe.
Incident response can be explained using fun examples that children understand.
When you use fun examples, learning becomes easier and more enjoyable.
Here are some fun examples:
Imagine you are playing a game where you have to protect a castle. The enemy breaks through the gate. You do not panic. You send soldiers to the gate. You fix the gate. You recover. You learn. That is incident response.
Your teacher gives a pop quiz. You are not prepared. You do not panic. You answer the questions you know. You learn from the experience. That is incident response.
Your phone battery dies. You do not panic. You charge it. That is incident response.
In a Nigerian football match, the coach sees the other team scoring. He changes the formation. He substitutes a player. That is incident response.
Fun Incident Response
+------------------------------------------+
| Video Game: Use health pack |
| Football: Change tactics |
| Social Media: Change password |
| School: Study harder |
| Cooking: Start again |
+------------------------------------------+
Incident response is everywhere. It is in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking. Cyber security incident response is just another type.
An incident response plan is a document that explains what to do when an incident happens.
A plan helps you stay calm. It helps you remember what to do. It helps you respond quickly.
An incident response plan has these parts:
A bank's incident response plan includes:
Your school's incident response plan includes:
Your family's incident response plan includes:
A Nigerian company's incident response plan includes:
Incident Response Plan
|
V
+-------------------+
| Team |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Phases |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Tools |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Metrics |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Communication |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Review |
+-------------------+
An incident response plan explains who is responsible, what the phases are, what tools to use, how to measure success, who to communicate with, and when to review.
| Word | Simple Definition |
|---|---|
| Incident | Something bad that happens |
| Incident Response | What we do when an incident happens |
| Preparation | Getting ready before an incident |
| Detection | Noticing that an incident has happened |
| Containment | Stopping the incident from spreading |
| Eradication | Removing the cause of the incident |
| Recovery | Restoring normal operations |
| Learning | Studying the incident and improving |
| Malware | Bad software that harms your computer |
| Virus | A type of malware that attaches to files and spreads |
| Ransomware | Bad software that locks your files and asks for money |
| Antivirus | Software that protects your computer from malware |
| Backup | A copy of your files kept in a safe place |
| Professional | An expert who can help you |
| MTTD | Mean Time to Detect - how fast you notice an incident |
A bank in Lagos uses incident response to handle fraud. They detect fraud in 10 minutes. They contain it in 30 minutes. They eradicate it in 1 hour. They recover in 4 hours. They learn and improve.
A school in Abuja uses incident response to handle viruses. They detect viruses in 20 minutes. They contain them in 1 hour. They eradicate them in 2 hours. They recover in 5 hours. They learn and improve.
A family in Port Harcourt uses incident response to handle Wi-Fi problems. They detect problems in 1 hour. They contain them in 2 hours. They eradicate them in 3 hours. They recover in 1 day. They learn and improve.
Banks like GTBank, Zenith, and Access Bank use incident response to handle fraud. They detect, contain, eradicate, recover, and learn.
Companies like MTN, Glo, and Airtel use incident response to handle SIM card fraud. They detect, contain, eradicate, recover, and learn.
NITDA uses incident response to handle cyber attacks. They detect, contain, eradicate, recover, and learn.
Schools like Covenant University and University of Lagos use incident response to handle data breaches. They detect, contain, eradicate, recover, and learn.
Companies like Jumia and Konga use incident response to handle fake orders. They detect, contain, eradicate, recover, and learn.
In a video game, if your character gets hurt, you use a health pack. That is incident response.
In football, if the other team scores, you change your tactics. That is incident response.
On social media, if your account is hacked, you change your password and report it. That is incident response.
In school, if you fail a test, you study harder. That is incident response.
The incident is losing your keys. You detect it. You contain it by checking your pockets. You eradicate it by finding the keys. You recover by using the keys. You learn by keeping them in a safe place.
The incident is getting sick. You detect it. You contain it by resting. You eradicate it by taking medicine. You recover by getting better. You learn by taking care of your health.
The incident is missing the bus. You detect it. You contain it by finding another bus. You eradicate it by getting on the bus. You recover by arriving at school. You learn by leaving earlier next time.
The incident is breaking a glass. You detect it. You contain it by not stepping on the glass. You eradicate it by cleaning it up. You recover by using a new glass. You learn by being more careful.
The incident is forgetting your homework. You detect it. You contain it by telling your teacher. You eradicate it by doing the homework. You recover by submitting it late. You learn by checking your bag before school.
+-------------------+
| Preparation |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Detection |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Containment |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Eradication |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Recovery |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Learning |
+-------------------+
|
V
+-------------------+
| Improve |
+-------------------+
Past Present Future
| | |
V V V
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Preparation | | Detection | | Recovery |
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| | |
V V V
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Train, Plan, | | Notice, Report,| | Restore, Fix, |
| Backup | | Confirm | | Learn |
+----------------+ +----------------+ +----------------+
| Metric | What It Measures | Example |
|---|---|---|
| MTTD | How fast you notice an incident | 15 minutes |
| MTTR | How fast you respond to an incident | 30 minutes |
| MTTC | How fast you stop an incident from spreading | 1 hour |
| MTTE | How fast you remove the cause | 2 hours |
| MTTR | How fast you restore normal operations | 6 hours |
| Number of Incidents | How many incidents happened | 10 |
| Number Resolved | How many incidents were fixed | 10 |
| Cost of Incidents | How much money was lost | 5 million naira |
| Feature | Good | Bad |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Prepared with a plan | Not prepared |
| Detection | Detects quickly | Detects slowly |
| Containment | Contains quickly | Does not contain |
| Eradication | Removes the cause | Does not remove the cause |
| Recovery | Recovers quickly | Recovers slowly |
| Learning | Learns and improves | Does not learn |
| Phase | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Getting ready | Training staff, making backups |
| Detection | Noticing an incident | Antivirus alerts, customer reports |
| Containment | Stopping the spread | Disconnecting computers |
| Eradication | Removing the cause | Deleting malware |
| Recovery | Restoring normal | Restoring files |
| Learning | Improving | Writing reports |
An incident is something bad that happens. In cyber security, it is when a hacker breaks in, a virus infects a computer, or data is stolen.
Incident response is what we do when an incident happens. It is our plan for dealing with the problem.
Incident response has six phases: preparation, detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and learning.
Preparation is getting ready before an incident happens. It means having a plan, training people, and using good tools.
Detection is noticing that an incident has happened. The faster you detect it, the faster you can respond.
Containment is stopping the incident from spreading. It limits the damage.
Eradication is removing the cause of the incident. It fixes the problem and prevents it from happening again.
Recovery is restoring normal operations. It means restoring files, fixing computers, and getting back to work.
Learning is studying the incident and improving. It helps prevent the incident from happening again.
Signs your computer is infected include a slow computer, pop-up ads, missing files, frequent crashes, and antivirus problems.
When your computer is infected, stay calm, disconnect from the internet, run an antivirus scan, remove the malware, restart, change passwords, restore files, and learn.
Call a professional when you cannot remove malware, when files are locked, when your computer will not start, when data is lost, or when you are not sure what to do.
Nigerian banks, telecoms, government agencies, schools, and businesses all use incident response to stay safe.
Incident response is everywhere. It is in video games, football, social media, school, and cooking.
An incident response plan explains who is responsible, what the phases are, what tools to use, how to measure success, who to communicate with, and when to review.
Congratulations! You have completed Module Eight: Incident Response for Your PC.
In this module, you learned that an incident is something bad that happens. You learned that incident response is what we do when an incident happens.
You learned about the six phases of incident response: preparation, detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and learning.
You learned about preparation. It means having a plan, training people, and using good tools.
You learned about detection. It means noticing that an incident has happened.
You learned about containment. It means stopping the incident from spreading.
You learned about eradication. It means removing the cause of the incident.
You learned about recovery. It means restoring normal operations.
You learned about learning. It means studying the incident and improving.
You learned the signs that your computer is infected.
You learned the steps to take when your computer is infected.
You learned when to call a professional.
You learned about Nigerian examples of incident response.
You learned about fun examples and everyday examples.
You learned how to build an incident response plan.
You are now an Incident Response expert in training!
An incident is something bad that happens. In cyber security, it is when a hacker breaks in, a virus infects a computer, or data is stolen.
Incident response is what we do when an incident happens. It is our plan for dealing with the problem.
Preparation, detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and learning.
Preparation is getting ready before an incident happens. It means having a plan, training people, and using good tools.
Detection is noticing that an incident has happened.
Containment is stopping the incident from spreading.
Eradication is removing the cause of the incident.
Recovery is restoring normal operations.
Learning is studying the incident and improving.
Call a professional when you cannot remove malware, when files are locked, when your computer will not start, when data is lost, or when you are not sure what to do.
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Incident | A. Noticing that an incident has happened |
| 2. Incident Response | B. Stopping the incident from spreading |
| 3. Preparation | C. Something bad that happens |
| 4. Detection | D. What we do when an incident happens |
| 5. Containment | E. Removing the cause of the incident |
| 6. Eradication | F. Restoring normal operations |
| 7. Recovery | G. Getting ready before an incident |
| 8. Learning | H. Studying the incident and improving |
Answers: 1-C, 2-D, 3-G, 4-A, 5-B, 6-E, 7-F, 8-H
Your school computer lab has a virus. The computers are slow. Files are missing.
Question: What should the school do?
Answer: The school should follow the incident response phases. Detect the virus. Contain it by disconnecting computers. Eradicate it by cleaning the computers. Recover by restoring files. Learn by writing a report.
Your family Wi-Fi is hacked. Someone is using it without permission.
Question: What should your family do?
Answer: Your family should follow the incident response phases. Detect the problem. Contain it by changing the Wi-Fi password. Eradicate it by removing the hacker. Recover by connecting again. Learn by using a stronger password.
A Nigerian bank is attacked by fraudsters. Customers are losing money.
Question: What should the bank do?
Answer: The bank should follow the incident response phases. Detect the fraud. Contain it by blocking the fraudster's account. Eradicate it by removing the fraudster. Recover by returning money. Learn by improving their system.
Instructions:
Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
Goal: Create a dashboard that shows how well your class responds to incidents.
Steps:
Time: 2 weeks
Instructions:
In Module Nine, you will learn about Everyday Habits for Long-Term Safety.
You will learn:
To prepare for Module Nine, think about these questions:
See you in Module Nine!
End of Module Eight