<![CDATA[AI Literacy | Academic & Career Success - Safety First]]>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:47:33 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[S3.2 - Owning Your Digital Space]]>Sun, 03 Aug 2025 19:16:53 GMThttps://www.black-liberation.tech/safety-first/s32-owning-your-digital-space
A group of diverse teenage girls and their mothers, with a mix of African-American, Afro-Latina, and Latina backgrounds, sit around a white table. Laptops are open in front of them. The group is listening to a Puerto Rican woman with a short hairstyle, who is gesturing as she speaks. A screen behind them displays
A Puerto Rican UX researcher leads a workshop for mothers and their teenage daughters on "Protected Access: Owning Your Digital Space." The diverse group, with a variety of hairstyles and backgrounds, sits around a table with laptops open, bathed in natural light from the large windows.
Scene: Multimedia Center, After-School Recreation Center
​The room is filled with soft chatter, posters of tech careers on the walls, and a big screen displaying the words: “Protected Access: Owning Your Digital Space”. Nicole Bakula sits in a circle with the girls and their mothers, laptops and tablets open on the table.

Nicole: (smiling, adjusting her seat) Hey, buenas tardes, everyone. I’m so happy to be here with you all. So, today, I want to talk about something that’s big for me… like really big. Access to technology is amazing, right? But, for me… it’s all about protected access. Because you can give somebody a computer, a phone, a connection—but if it’s not safe? That access can get messy, fast.

Celia: (leaning forward) What do you mean by “protected”? Like, passwords?

Nicole: Passwords, sí… but also more than that. I work in privacy. My job is kind of funny—sometimes I joke that we researchers “stalk” people, but in a good way—we want to know what apps you love, why you love them. But we also protect you. Like, I don’t just collect data, I guard it. And at home, I have this little thing—a Raspberry Pi—it blocks trackers, ads, all that noise. Makes me feel at ease. Like, okay, I’m in control of my space.

Esperanza: (nodding) My phone’s always full of random ads. Like, I just say something out loud, and boom—I see it on Instagram.

Nicole: (laughs knowingly) Oh, girl, that’s real. That’s why protected access matters. We can love tech, but tech doesn’t always love us back, you know?

Nina (mother): I try to watch what my daughter does online, but sometimes I feel like I’m behind. They click on things so fast… I don’t know what’s safe anymore.

Nicole: Nina, you’re not alone. It’s hard. That’s why we gotta have these talks, because protection is teamwork. Like, Esperanza, let’s say you’re clicking on that ad—what do you think it wants from you?

Esperanza: My money… or my info.

Nicole: Exactly. And once your info is out there, you don’t always control it. That’s the part that makes me wary. So I set limits—I barely use social media. Not because I hate it… but because I want choice in what I share, when I share it.

Assata: But what if I wanna post my poem online? I want people to read it, but not steal it.

Nicole: I love that question. That’s where protected access gives you power, not just tech. You can:
  • Post it with a watermark or copyright note.
  • Use sites that give you control over who sees it.
  • And double-check what info you give those sites first.

Ruby (mother): My biggest fear is someone pretending to be them online. Like catfishing. It’s scary.

Nicole: Yup, that’s real too. It’s not just hackers—it’s people misusing what we share. That’s why I tell every girl I mentor: before you click, before you post, ask yourself:
1️⃣ Do I control where this goes?
2️⃣ Do I trust who’s on the other side of the screen?
If the answer is no, maybe keep it close until you’re sure.

Frida (mother): My daughter loves drawing and wants to start an online art page. But I don’t know what’s safe for a 12-year-old.

Nicole: Frida, I’d say you two can set up layers of safety—like training wheels:
  • Use a parent-monitored account.
  • Only post art, no personal info.
  • Keep comments off until you’re ready.
    It’s not about saying no, it’s about saying yes… but safely.
María (mother): I wish schools taught more of this. My daughter knows coding but not privacy.

Nicole: (nodding passionately) That’s why I do this work. Giving access is not enough—we need protected access, where kids can dream big, learn big, and stay safe. Because you all deserve a future online that’s wide open—but not wide open to harm.

Erykah (mother): I like that… access with protection. Feels like teaching them to swim with a lifeguard there.

Nicole: Exactly. The internet is a big ocean. I just want to make sure every one of you has a life jacket, a map, and someone watching your back while you swim.

​(The girls exchange glances, nodding. A sense of mutual understanding fills the room as mothers and daughters begin sharing small “safety pledges” they’ll try at home—like checking privacy settings together or pausing before clicking “post.”)
Reflect & Write: Guarding Your Digital Space
Instructions: Read the prompts below and write your thoughts in your journal or digital notes. If you’re working with your mom or guardian, take turns answering and then share your ideas with each other.
  1. Your Digital Door: Think of your online space like your home. Who are you letting in when you accept “cookies” on a website? How could you control who comes through that “door”?
  2. Eyes and Ears in Your Space: Many devices (phones, laptops, Alexa, Google Home) have cameras or microphones. How do you feel about them being “always on”? What steps could you take to guard your privacy?
  3. Location Sharing Choices: Some apps ask for your location. Which apps truly need your location to work? Which ones might be tracking more than necessary? How can you limit access?
  4. Cookie Settings Check: When a website asks you to accept “all cookies,” what do you think that means? How could you take a moment to review or reject certain cookies to keep your data safe?
  5. Unwanted Listeners: Imagine you’re having a private conversation at home, but a device is listening. How would you know if this is happening? What settings could you change to stop it?
  6. Guarding Your Camera: How do you make sure your camera isn’t used without your permission? Write down at least two actions you can take (ex. camera covers, turning it off, adjusting settings).
  7. App Permissions Audit: Pick one app you use daily. What permissions does it have (camera, mic, contacts, photos, videos, location)? Are you comfortable with all of them? Which ones would you change?
  8. Sharing with Care: Before posting something online, imagine if strangers could see your home, school, or neighborhood from that post. What can you do to guard your space and keep your location private?
  9. Setting Family Rules: Write one “Guard Your Space Rule” that you and your mother/guardian could agree on to keep your digital space safe at home. How would you make it a habit?
  10. Your Personal Guard Plan: If you had to make a 3-step plan to guard your digital space this week (cookies, tracking, listening, camera), what steps would you include? Why are these important?
​🔐 Digital Detectives: Guarding Your Space in a Connected World
​Objective: To empower girls and their mothers to investigate how technology interacts with their personal data, recognize risks, and create a personal “Guard Plan” for safe online engagement—demonstrating advanced digital literacy skills through self-led discovery and teamwork.

Materials Needed:
  • Laptops, tablets, or smartphones (one per pair)
  • Internet access
  • Access to a search engine (Google, DuckDuckGo, Bing, etc.)
  • Access to generative AI tools (ChatGPT, Gemini, or similar)
  • Personal journal or digital notes app (one per participant)

Activity Instructions
​Step 1: Detective Mission Brief (5 min)
​Read this aloud together:
“Today, we’re digital detectives. Our mission is to find out how our favorite apps or devices see, hear, and track us—and then make a plan to guard our space while still enjoying technology.”
Each of you chooses one app or device you use often (examples: TikTok, Instagram, Google Maps, Alexa, school Chromebook).

Step 2: Search Engine Investigation (15 min)
Use a search engine to answer:
  • “How does [app/device] track my data?”
  • “How can I change privacy settings on [app/device]?”
  • “Does [app/device] listen or record me?”
Record three key things you learned in your journal or notes under these headings:
  • Cookies & Tracking
  • Location Sharing
  • Listening & Camera Access
💬 Talk it out: Share your findings with each other. Did you find anything surprising or concerning?

Step 3: Generative AI Analysis (15–20 min)
Open ChatGPT or Gemini and ask:
  1. “Explain how [app/device] uses my data in simple terms.”
  2. “What are three ways to protect my privacy while using [app/device]?”
  3. “What settings should I review to guard my space on [app/device]?”
Write down new advice or insights in your journal. Compare them with what you found in your search results.
💬 Talk it out: Do the AI tips match what you found online? Which do you trust more?

Step 4: Risk vs. Benefit Discussion (10 min)
Together, discuss and write your answers:
  • Opportunities: What benefits do you get from using this app/device?
  • Threats: What privacy or safety risks did you discover?
  • Dealbreakers: What settings or practices will you change immediately?
💬 Talk it out: Agree on one change each of you will make today to protect your space.

Step 5: Build Your 3-Step Guard Plan (15 min)
Using everything you’ve learned, write a personal “Guard Your Space Plan” in your journal:
  1. Immediate Action: A setting or permission you’ll change today.
  2. Regular Habit: Something you’ll check weekly or monthly to stay safe.
  3. Family Rule: A shared rule you and your mother/guardian will follow to guard your digital space.
💬 Talk it out: Share your plans with each other. Would you add or change anything?

Optional Challenge (After the Activity)
  • Try a different search engine (DuckDuckGo, Bing) and see if the results change.
  • Ask ChatGPT or Gemini: “How can I explain my privacy plan to a 10-year-old?”
  • Create a mini poster or phone wallpaper with your “Guard Plan Rules” to remind you daily.

Learning Outcomes:
By completing this activity, you will:
  • ✅ Use search engines effectively to investigate privacy settings.
  • ✅ Use generative AI to analyze and cross-check information.
  • ✅ Understand cookies, permissions, location tracking, and listening devices.
  • ✅ Build and practice a personal, actionable Guard Plan for your technology use.
  • ✅ Strengthen your skills to think critically, discuss openly, and make safer choices online.
💬 Conversation Starters
Here’s a Bonus Page of Conversation Starters designed for girls and their mothers (or guardians) to keep the discussion about guarding their digital spaces alive at home.
  1. What’s one thing you learned today about cookies or trackers that surprised you?
  2. Which app do you think knows the most about you—and how does that make you feel?
  3. If our devices could talk, what do you think they’d say they know about us?
  4. How would you explain to a friend why you don’t share your location with every app?
  5. What’s one thing you wish every website asked before collecting your data?
  6. How can we make checking app permissions a regular habit—like locking our doors at night?
  7. What’s the scariest thing that could happen if we didn’t guard our space online?
  8. Which setting do you think is the most important to change first—cookies, location, microphone, or camera? Why?
  9. If you could invent a tech feature that protects privacy better, what would it do?
  10. How can we remind each other to stay careful online without making it feel like a chore?
]]><![CDATA[S3.1 - Opportunities and Threats]]>Sun, 03 Aug 2025 16:07:40 GMThttps://www.black-liberation.tech/safety-first/s31-opportunities-and-threats
A diverse group of teenage girls and their mothers with a variety of African American, Afro-Latina, and Latina backgrounds are seated in a circle on the floor of a brightly lit community room. They are listening intently to an Afro-Latina woman who is seated opposite them, gesturing as she speaks. The woman has an afro and is wearing a brown button-up shirt and dark jeans. The walls behind them are decorated with colorful, hand-drawn posters promoting online safety and creativity.
An Afro-Latina MarTech Publicist leads a workshop on online safety and creativity for a diverse group of mothers and their teenage daughters in a cozy after-school community room.
Scene: A cozy community room in the after-school center. Posters about online safety and creativity hang on the walls. Jazmin sits in a circle with a group of mothers and their daughters.

Jazmin: Good afternoon, everyone. I’m really grateful to be here today. Technology is a big part of our lives—it connects us, it teaches us, it gives us opportunities we couldn’t have imagined twenty years ago. But… there’s something else I always remind myself: as much as there’s opportunity, there’s also real threat. And that’s what I want us to talk about together.

Selena (curious): What do you mean by threat? Like, hackers?

Jazmin: That’s part of it, Selena. But I also mean… the way someone might misuse what we share. The internet can be a beautiful thing—but it doesn’t always have good intentions on the other side of the screen. You may post a picture because you feel happy or confident, but you don’t control where it goes next. That’s the kind of threat I want us to be mindful of.

Ruby (mother): I understand that. But sometimes, as a parent, I don’t know how much is too much when it comes to watching what they do on their phones.

Jazmin (pauses thoughtfully): Ruby, I get that. I grew up in a Latin household, and I know there’s this… level of uncertainty, sometimes mistrust, about what young people are doing online. And honestly, it’s not because parents don’t love or trust their kids—it’s because this technology can take things in directions none of us expect. It’s big. It’s powerful. And yes, it can go really well… or it can go really bad.

Sonia: But there are good things too, right? Like, I want to post my art online. I want people to see it.

Jazmin (smiling): Oh, absolutely. That’s the opportunity part, Sonia. Sharing your art can open doors—you could inspire people, you could build a career one day from the creativity you show now. Technology gives you that stage. My only advice is: treat that stage with care. Ask yourself: Am I okay with this picture, this thought, this moment being seen by anyone, anywhere, forever? If the answer’s no… maybe keep it just for you, or share it privately.

Coretta (mother): I try to set boundaries, but my daughter says I don’t understand what’s really going on online.

Jazmin: And that’s where the second part of this conversation comes in. Girls, I think you can help your parents understand why you use technology. Sometimes adults think it's all a waste of time—just scrolling or playing games. But there are skills you’re building, even from video games or chatting with friends, that matter. The more open you are about why it matters to you, the more trust you build.

​Zora: So, like, I should tell my mom why I’m posting a dance video, not just do it?

Jazmin: Exactly, Zora. It’s not about asking permission—it’s about making sure the people who love you know what’s on your mind and how you’re using these tools. That way, they’re not guessing or worrying.

Dolores (mother): Jazmin, if you had to tell these girls just one rule to stay safe, what would it be?

Jazmin (choosing words carefully): One rule… I’d say this: Always remember there’s a real human behind the screen. Some will lift you up, others might try to harm or trick you. So be kind, be cautious, and never share something you wouldn’t want the whole world to see.

Ava: Even if I think it’s just between me and my best friend?

Jazmin: Even then, Ava. Screens can’t promise you privacy. But they can give you incredible opportunities if you treat what you post with care. That’s how you build safety and freedom online.

Truth (mother): I like that… be kind, be cautious.

Jazmin: Yes. Technology is a gift—but like any powerful tool, it needs wisdom. And that wisdom? It comes from conversations like this one, from listening to each other, and from thinking before we tap “post.”
📝 Reflect & WriteInstructions: Read the prompts below and write your thoughts in your journal or digital notepad. If you’re working with your mom or guardian, take turns answering and then share your ideas with each other.
  1. What is one opportunity Jazmin said technology can give you?

  2. What is one threat or danger she mentioned?

  3. Think of a time you posted or shared something online. How did it make you feel?

  4. If your post had reached people you didn’t expect, what could have happened?

  5. Jazmin said, “There’s a real human behind the screen.” What does that mean to you?

  6. How do you decide what is safe to share online? Write down your personal rule.

  7. Name one positive way you use technology every day.

  8. Name one boundary you could set to protect yourself online.

  9. How can you help your mom or guardian understand why you like using certain apps or games?

  10. Write one sentence you want to remember from today’s conversation with Jazmin.
🎯 Spot the Opportunity or Threat?
​Goal: Practice identifying online situations as opportunities, threats, or a mix of both.

​How to Play:
  1. Read each scenario aloud.
  2. Each person holds up a card (or says aloud):
    • ✅ Opportunity
    • ⚠️ Threat
    • 🤔 Both
  3. Share why you chose your answer and what you would do in that situation.

Scenarios:
  1. You receive a message from someone you don’t know asking for a picture of you.
  2. A friend tags you in a fun video from a school event.
  3. A stranger sends you a link promising free concert tickets.
  4. You create an art account to show your drawings to the public.
  5. Someone you met in a game asks to meet in person.
  6. Your favorite singer likes and comments on your dance video.
  7. You post your real-time location while hanging out with friends.
  8. You join an online study group that helps you do better in math.
  9. A popular account reposts your photo without asking.
  10. You share a private joke with your best friend through messages.

Wrap-Up Discussion:
  • Which scenario felt like the biggest opportunity? Why?
  • Which scenario felt like the biggest threat? Why?
  • What’s one “safety rule” you want to remember for next time you’re online?
🔎 Search Smart, Think Twice
Objective:
To help girls (Grades 6–12) and their mothers collaboratively:
  1. Identify and evaluate online opportunities and threats using real-world examples.
  2. Use search engines and generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) responsibly to gather, compare, and assess online information.
  3. Practice safe decision-making skills before clicking, posting, or engaging online.

Materials Needed:
  • Internet-connected devices (laptops, tablets, or smartphones)
  • Access to a search engine (Google, Bing, etc.)
  • Access to AI tools (ChatGPT, Gemini, or similar)
  • Digital worksheet or shared Google Doc for notes​

Activity Steps
Step 1 – Scenario Selection (5 min)
Each mother-daughter team chooses one real-world scenario from the list or creates their own:
  • Scenario A: A new social media challenge is trending. Should you join?
  • Scenario B: You receive a DM from someone offering to feature your art or dance video online. Safe or risky?
  • Scenario C: A website promises free concert tickets in exchange for signing up and sharing personal information. Should you click?
  • Scenario D: You’ve designed a cool digital product and want to post it on multiple platforms—what do you need to think about first?

Step 2 – Search & Gather (10 min)
Teams will:
  • Use search engines to gather information about their scenario (e.g., “dangers of online challenges,” “how to safely share art online,” “fake giveaways online”).
  • Document their sources, noting:
    • Website credibility (Who runs it? Is it reputable?)
    • Whether the information seems trustworthy or biased
    • What advice or warnings are given

Step 3 – Ask the AI (10 min)
Teams will:
  • Use ChatGPT or Gemini to ask:
    • Opportunities: “What are the possible benefits of [scenario]?”
    • Threats: “What are the possible risks of [scenario]? How can we stay safe?”
  • Compare AI responses with search engine results.
  • Discuss:
    • Did the AI give new insights or repeat known advice?
    • Did the AI give any unsafe or questionable suggestions? How can you verify them?

Step 4 – Click, Post & Use with Care Checklist (5 min)
Using both sources, teams create a short decision-making checklist:
  • ✅ What steps will you take before clicking, posting, or replying?
  • ✅ What information will you avoid sharing?
  • ✅ How will you confirm if an opportunity is real and safe?

Step 5 – Present & Reflect (10 min)
Each team shares:
  • Their chosen scenario
  • At least one opportunity and one threat they discovered
  • One rule they will follow moving forward when using technology

Digital Literacy Skills Demonstrated:
  • Critical Thinking: Evaluating search results and AI responses for reliability
  • Safe Navigation: Identifying safe vs. unsafe online behaviors
  • AI Literacy: Understanding how generative AI can support—but not replace—good judgment
  • Online Etiquette: Recognizing the human impact of clicks and posts

Extension Challenge:
​For teams comfortable with technology:
  • Ask ChatGPT or Gemini to generate a short, safe “social media caption” for posting their art, dance video, or project online.
  • Teams then review the caption together and edit it using their new safety checklist before sharing (hypothetically).
]]><![CDATA[3. 0 - Social Media Is Not Real Life]]>Sat, 19 Jul 2025 14:56:43 GMThttps://www.black-liberation.tech/safety-first/2-0-social-media-is-not-real-life
A vibrant and diverse group of young African American, Afro-Latina, and Latina women, ranging in age from 13 to 28, are seated in a semi-circle of colorful, mismatched chairs within a modern innovation center. They are engaged in conversation and appear collaborative and happy.
Young African American, Afro-Latina, and Latina women collaborating and connecting in an innovation center.
This conversation takes place between Ebony, Nadine, Nicole Bakula, Sharlene, and a group of 10 girls (grades 6–12) and their mothers at an Innovation Center in a suburban Atlanta recreation center.


Scene: Community Room, Innovation Center – Early Evening
The room hums with chatter as mothers and daughters settle into a semi-circle of colorful chairs. A projector glows with the title slide: “Safety First Series: Social Media Is Not Real Life.” Ebony stands at the front with Nadine, Nicole Bakula, and Sharlene seated beside her. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Ebony: (smiling warmly) Alright, y’all. Welcome. Tonight, we’re gonna talk about something that affects all of us—especially y’all who’ve grown up with phones in hand—social media. But not from a place of judgment. We just want to open up a real conversation about what it is... and what it is not.

Maya: So... like, how do y’all feel about it? Do you use social media every day?

Nadine: Hmm... (smiling thoughtfully) That’s a good one. I actually don’t post often. Even though I love taking pictures and documenting memories, especially of my family, I usually keep those private. My camera roll is full! But I think about what’s worth sharing and who it’s really for.

Sharlene: (laughs) Yes! I’m old school. I don’t post at all. In fact, my team runs my business accounts. I like to create content, sure, but I don’t need to be in it. I don’t need to share every part of my life to feel valid. Honestly, I don’t want strangers knowing my every move.

Selena: But isn’t it kinda weird to not be on at all? Like, don’t you miss out?

Nicole Bakula: I hear you. It’s tricky. I limit my time on social media. I don’t even have TikTok or any dating apps—never downloaded them. For me, it’s about boundaries. I still talk with friends, but I don’t feel like I need to be everywhere online. There’s power in being selective.

Ebony: That’s real. And can I just say—likes don’t equal your worth. You can post the funniest or deepest thing and barely get any attention, and someone else posts a dancing cat, and it goes viral. Social media doesn’t always reward what's meaningful. It rewards what grabs attention.

Gloria: That’s so important. I’ve seen my daughter sad because a post didn’t get enough likes. And I get it—it feels personal.

Lupita: Sometimes it’s hard not to compare yourself. Like, everybody looks so happy online.

Nadine: (nodding) And that’s the trap. Most of what we see is curated. It's like a highlight reel—not the messy, honest stuff. People don’t post their breakdowns or their rejections, just their wins.

Sharlene: And some of it’s exaggerated. Some folks are performing a version of their life for the camera—filters, staging, even lies. And it makes us feel like we’re the only ones struggling. But we’re not.

Nicole Bakula: Exactly. We all need moments off-screen to reconnect with reality. That’s why I unplug regularly. Just because something can be posted, doesn’t mean it should be.

Ebony: (to the girls) Let me ask y’all this—have you ever looked at someone’s post and thought, “Wow, their life is perfect”?
(Several girls nod slowly.)

Ebony: Yeah. But remember—some of the happiest-looking posts come from folks who are struggling. Don’t base your worth on a picture you saw at 2 a.m. while scrolling.

Michelle: So what do you post? If anything?

Sharlene: (smiling) Professional things only. Maybe a campaign or an event. But never personal. I’ve learned the hard way to keep what’s sacred offline.

Nadine: Same here. I post intentionally—artwork, design projects, or something that might encourage someone. But never out of pressure. If I don’t feel like sharing, I don’t.

Nicole Bakula: I focus on impact. If it’s useful, uplifting, or aligns with my values, I might share it. Otherwise, I let it live offline.

Ebony: And me? I post when I want to celebrate something I’m proud of, or to uplift someone else. But I’m not gonna post for likes. I’ve had to learn to keep some wins just for myself.

Iman: So it’s okay to post less?

​All (together): Yes!

Ebony: It’s more than okay—it’s powerful. You don’t have to post everything to be somebody. You already are.

Nicole Bakula: You’re allowed to have a private life. You’re allowed to rest, to not respond, to delete, and to say no thanks to trends that don’t feel good.

Nadine: Just ask yourself, “Who is this for?” If you’re posting to impress strangers or to prove something, take a breath. Your peace is more important.

Ebony: (gestures to the group) We’ll leave y’all with this: Social media is not real life. Real life is happening right here, in this room, with people who love you, who support you, and who see you—not through a filter.
The room falls into reflective silence as the projector fades to black, replaced with the words:

​“Be intentional. Be real. Be safe.”
✨ Reflect & Write Prompts: Reflect on the following prompts and write out your responses.
🌐 Understanding Social Media Habits
  1. How do you decide what to post on social media?
    Do you think about who will see it, how it will look, or how many likes it might get?
  2. Have you ever deleted a post because it didn’t get enough likes or comments?
    How did that make you feel?
  3. What’s the difference between your real day and your social media day?
    If someone only saw your posts, what would they assume about your life?
  4. Do you use filters when posting photos? Why or why not?
    How do filters make you feel about your unfiltered self?
  5. When you scroll through other people’s pictures, what thoughts come to mind?
    Are there people you compare yourself to, even if you don’t mean to do it?
  6. Have you ever felt worse after spending time on social media?
    What were you looking at, and why do you think it affected you that way?
  7. Do you ever feel pressure to look or act a certain way online?
    Where do you think that pressure comes from?
  8. What is one thing about you that you’ve never posted but you are proud of it?
    Why haven’t you shared it?
  9. If someone only saw your online profile, would they really know who you are as a person?
    What would they be missing about you?
  10. What boundaries—if any—do you set for yourself around social media?
    Are there times when taking a break might help your peace of mind?


💫 Reclaiming Self-Worth & Beauty Beyond the Screen
  1. When you look at models or influencers online, how do they compare to people you see every day at school, church, or home?
    What do you notice that’s different between what you see online and everyday? What do you think is more real?
  2. What makes someone beautiful to you, beyond how they look?
    Can you name a person in your life who is beautiful for reasons other than appearance?
  3. Name three things you love about yourself that have nothing to do with how you look.
    Why are these things important to who you are as a person?
  4. What are your gifts, talents, or special traits that no one else has exactly like you?
    How can you share those in the world—with or without social media?
  5. If social media disappeared tomorrow, how would you let people know who you are as an individual?
    What would you want them to remember about you—your heart, your talents, your voice?
An African American woman in her late 20s or early 30s with striking red Afro-textured hair and freckles across her nose and cheeks wears glasses and looks at complex data on several monitors in a dim office setting. She's dressed in business casual attire and surrounded by tech equipment, suggesting a deep focus on her work as a Digital Forensics Analyst.
Dedicated to uncovering digital truths. This Digital Forensics Analyst, with her keen eye and vibrant red hair, is deeply immersed in her work.
🔐 Digital Forensics Analyst (or Computer Forensics Investigator)
  • What they do: Investigate cybercrimes by recovering and analyzing data from computers, smartphones, and digital storage devices.
  • Where they work: Law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity firms, government offices.
🔍 Digital Detectives: Is It Real or Just for the 'Gram?
​"Welcome, Digital Detectives! You’ve been hired to investigate whether the content you're seeing on social media reflects real life… or if it’s just for show. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to uncover the hidden clues in a few posts, ask critical questions, and report your findings."

Time: 30–45 minutes
Tools Needed:
  • Smartphone, tablet, or laptop with internet access
  • Access to at least one social media platform (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.)
  • Digital worksheet (Google Doc, Form, or Notes App)

🧭 Objective:
To explore social media posts critically in real time and reflect on what might be curated, exaggerated, or filtered intentionally. Strengthen your digital literacy and confidence by distinguishing between online portrayals and real life.

📝 Instructions:
🌐 Step 1: Choose Your Feed
Open one of your favorite social media apps (or visit a public page). Choose 3–5 posts that catch your attention.
Look for:
  • “Perfect” selfies
  • Lifestyle influencer posts
  • Sponsored content (#ad)
  • Vacation or event highlight reels


🕵️‍♀️ Step 2: Investigate the Posts
For each post, discuss the following questions together. You can record your answers in a digital worksheet or voice memo:
  1. What is being shown in this post?
  2. What emotions or reactions did you feel when you first saw it?
  3. Are there signs that the post might be curated or filtered? (lighting, angles, brand mentions, hashtags, matching outfits, etc.)
  4. What do you not see? (mess, prep work, behind-the-scenes, emotion, effort)
  5. What might the person be trying to communicate or get from this post?


🟥🟩 Step 3: Tag It—Real or Curated?
For each post, decide as a team:
  • 🟥 Mark as “Curated” if it feels overly polished, performative, or filtered
    • Signs it may not reflect real life: filters, product placement, perfect lighting, unrealistic body poses
  • 🟩 Mark as “Relatable” if it feels authentic, natural, or reflects real life
    • Signs it feels genuine or relatable: messy background, humor, honesty, visible emotions
You can note this by writing 🟥 or 🟩 next to each answer or using emojis in a shared doc or notes app.


💬 Step 4: Share & Reflect
Talk through these closing reflection questions together:
  1. Did anything surprise you about what you noticed?
  2. How does knowing this change the way you look at social media?
  3. How do you feel now about the posts you usually see or share?
  4. How can you support each other in posting with intention?
  5. What does “real life” look like for you—and how can you celebrate that online or offline?
  6. How can we apply this investigation skill when we scroll in real life?

​🧠 Optional Extension/Reflection:
“How can we remind ourselves and others that we are more than what we post?”
“What does it mean to post with honesty or intention?”

💡 Optional Final Prompt:
​Write or voice-record your own personal reminder. Here are a couple of examples:
“Just because it’s online doesn’t mean it’s real. I am enough just as I am.”
OR
“Before I post, I will ask: Who is this for? What am I really sharing?”
]]><![CDATA[S1.2 - Safe Spaces, Shared Screens]]>Sun, 29 Jun 2025 21:27:58 GMThttps://www.black-liberation.tech/safety-first/s12✨ Reflect & Write: Creating Safe Online Environments & Protecting Others
✍🏽 Reflect & Write Questions
  1. Imagine you're hosting an online class or club meeting.
    What are three things you should check before turning on your camera or screen sharing?
  2. Why is it important to protect other people’s privacy during a virtual session?
    What could happen if someone’s name, face, or background is shared without permission?
  3. Think about a time when you were in an online session.
    Did you notice anything personal in someone’s background? How did it make you feel?
  4. What is identity theft?
    In your own words, explain how someone’s information could be stolen and misused online.
  5. Oversharing can lead to someone pretending to be you.
    What are some things you can do to make sure your personal data stays safe in shared spaces?
  6. If you see someone sharing too much personal information in a group chat or online meeting, what should you do?
    How can you support them without embarrassing them?
  7. What does a safe online space look and feel like to you?
    List three rules or values you would use to build one for your friends or classmates.
  8. Write a short message you could post in a group chat or online meeting to remind others to stay safe and respectful online. "Hey everyone, just a quick reminder..."
Portrait of an Afro-Latina Corporate Privacy Engineer with long, curly hair, smiling confidently in an office setting.
A confident Afro-Latina Corporate Privacy Engineer with beautiful, long curly hair smiles in her modern office, a digital network diagram on a screen in the background.
Corporate Privacy Engineer 💼🛡️
Designs systems and tools that safeguard employee data such as payroll, health records, and contact info. Works with HR and IT departments to manage access controls and security policies.
Saturday Morning Workshop – “Your Digital Space, Your Rules”

Location: A local high school media center. Coffee, snacks, and chargers are set out on a table. Njoki sits in a circle with a group of high school girls and their mothers. Everyone has their phones nearby. The room is casual and welcoming.

Njoki: Good morning, everyone. Thank you all for being here. I wanted us to have a real conversation—not just about what we see online, but how we build spaces that protect us and others.

So let me ask you this: have you ever been in a virtual meeting and noticed something in someone’s background that made you uncomfortable?

Kayla (16): Ugh, yes! One time, a girl had her whole medicine cabinet open behind her during a Zoom. You could read the labels on everything!

Mrs. Jackson (Kayla’s mom): Oh nooo. That’s the kind of thing you don’t even realize is visible until someone screenshots it.

Njoki (nodding): Exactly. That’s what I mean by protecting the space. When we host or even just participate in online sessions, we have to be intentional about what’s showing—and what might show up later.

Ava (17): I once saw someone’s baby brother’s school info on the fridge during a class. Full name and school name on a flyer.

Njoki: That's such a good example. It’s not always about our information, either. It’s about being mindful that we’re protecting everyone who shows up in our frame—even if they didn’t choose to be seen.

Mrs. Gomez (mother of two): I didn’t know much about Zoom privacy settings until my job required us to do webinars. I had my full name and personal email just out there—no password on the meeting either.

Njoki: That’s real. And for folks in roles like yours—where you’re managing information for others—it’s even more important. Simple things like turning off name displays or using nicknames for kids in group calls can go a long way.

Laila (15): Can we talk about identity theft for a second? Because my mom had her info stolen last year and it was… actually kind of scary.

Mrs. Thompson (her mom, visibly unsettled): It was awful. Someone used my social to apply for loans I didn’t take out. All because I posted a “new job announcement” with too much detail and used my birthday month in the caption. They pieced it all together.
(The room gets quiet.)

Njoki (softly): Thank you for sharing that. I know that wasn’t easy. And I’m really sorry that happened to you. It shows how something that feels celebratory can be turned into a vulnerability.

​That’s why identity protection isn’t just about keeping your passwords strong—it’s about thinking, “What does this post reveal about me that a stranger could use?”

Zuri (16, trying to lighten the moment): I’m over here changing my Instagram bio in real-time.
(Everyone laughs a little, the tension breaking.)

Njoki (smiling): Hey, that’s growth in action.

Mrs. Wilson: So how do we balance it? Like, we want to be proud of our kids, share moments, celebrate wins... but how do we keep it safe?

Njoki: That’s the big question. I like to say: “If it feels like an announcement, make it private. If it feels like a memory, ask who needs to see it.” Not everything has to be for everyone.

Kayla: Okay wait, that’s kind of deep.

Mrs. Jackson (grinning): We need that on a mug.

Njoki: So let’s close with this: What does a safe online space mean to you? Not just for yourself—but for your family, your friends, your community.

Ava: A place where I don’t feel judged for what I don’t share.

Laila: Where people know I care about them even if I don’t repost everything they post.

Mrs. Thompson: Where I don’t have to explain why I protect my peace. Even digitally.

​Njoki: Yes. Yes. All of that. Safe online spaces don’t just happen—they’re built. And you all are already doing the work.

Scene Ends: Moms and daughters exchange ideas, hugs, and plans to check their account settings when they get home. Njoki leaves them with a printed checklist titled: “Before You Share: Is It Kind? Is It Clear? Is It Safe?”
​🛡️ Building Safe Digital Spaces

💬 Warm-Up
Think about a time you posted something online—or joined a video call.

What did you notice in your background?

Was there anything you forgot to hide or blur?

✍🏽 Reflect & Write
1. Why is it important to protect other people’s privacy in a webinar, group chat, or online meeting?

2. What kind of personal information do people sometimes share without realizing it? List at least three examples.

3. After hearing about identity theft in Njoki’s group, what is something you will do differently online?

4. Imagine you're helping to host a virtual event or study group. What are 3 things you would do to make sure everyone feels safe and respected?

5. Njoki said, “If it feels like an announcement, make it private. If it feels like a memory, ask who needs to see it.” What does this mean to you?

✅ Before You Share: Safety Checklist 
🔲 I checked my background for personal or sensitive information.

🔲 I avoided showing mail, IDs, documents, or location clues.

🔲 I protected my attendees’ names, faces, and personal info.

🔲 I turned off automatic name displays if hosting a meeting.

🔲 I asked myself: Would I want a stranger to know this?

🔲 I used a nickname or initials if sharing about a child.

🔲 I reviewed my privacy settings before sharing.

🔲 I avoided posting someone else’s image or info without asking.

🔲 I didn’t include my birthday, address, or phone number.

🔲 I paused and asked: Is this kind? Is this clear? Is this safe?

💡 Bonus Prompt
Write a short message you could send in a group chat or post online to remind your community to stay safe and thoughtful online.
“Hey everyone, before we go live/share, let’s remember…”
🔐 “AI in My Space: Safe, Smart, and Respectful Use”

💬 What You’re Going to Do
You and your mother (guardian or mentor) will explore how to use generative AI platforms like ChatGPT or Gemini safely. These platforms are powerful tools—but just like social media, you must protect your personal information and know how to create safe, respectful online spaces.

In this activity, you will:
🔹 Learn how to use generative AI in a safe way.
🔹 Recognize how PII and overly personal prompts can lead to risk.
🔹 Collaborate with family or mentors on household/group norms for AI use.
🔹 Practice asking questions and getting helpful answers.
🔹 Practice healthy AI habits for safe and productive use.
🔹 Analyze AI output critically for accuracy, bias, or red flags.
🔹 Make your own “AI Safety Poster” to remind yourself of smart online habits.
 
📲 Materials Needed
🔹 A device with internet access (phone, tablet, laptop)
🔹 Access to a generative AI platform (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini)
🔹 Something to write with (or use a digital notepad)
🔹 Access to a platform to create a digital flyer (Canva) OR paper and craft supplies
🔹 About 45 minutes to work together

🧠 THINK: Explore and Discuss
Read these tips with your mother, guardian, or mentor. Use sticky notes or a shared Google Doc to write 5–7 "Safe Prompt Rules" for your home.

Examples:
👉🏽 Never share your real name, address, school, phone number, email, or usernames.
👉🏽 Use general language (“a student” instead of “me at MLK High”).
👉🏽 Don’t share stories, photos, or family details without permission.
👉🏽 Ask yourself: Would I say this to a stranger?
👉🏽 Keep advice from AI in draft form. Always talk to a real person before acting on it.
👉🏽 Double-check what AI tells you using a search engine and reliable sources.
👉🏽 Ask questions that help you learn, grow, or create something positive.

​😊 Now talk together about this:
1.     Why should you keep personal information private, even from a chatbot?
2.     What kinds of questions feel safe to ask AI?
3.     What would you do if the answer felt wrong?

TRY IT: Prompt + Audit + Submit
Choose an AI tool (ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.) and write a prompt. Before you enter it, use this checklist:

📝 Safe Prompt Checklist
[ ] I did not use real names or usernames.
[ ] I did not include someone else’s story.
[ ] I wrote things in a general way.
[ ] I used kind, respectful words.
[ ] I feel safe asking this question.

💿 Examples of Safe Prompts:
🍝 Help me write a recipe for [dish] for someone who is lactose intolerant.
🎁 Give me gift ideas for a friend who likes [hobby].
📄 Pretend to be a [job] interviewer—what are 5 questions you would ask someone applying for [scholarship or role]?

💬 Ask Yourself:
Would someone be able to guess who I am from this prompt?
​Would I feel safe reading this if it were posted by someone else?


🥵 FACT CHECK: What Did It Say? Could This Be Harmful?
1.     Read the AI’s answer aloud.
2.     Analyze the response:
  • Is it giving false information?
  • Is it biased or inappropriate?
  • Does it sound unsafe?
  • Would a trusted adult say the same thing?
3.     Use Google or a trusted site to double-check anything that feels wrong.
🔹 Bonus: Search “When ChatGPT got it wrong” or “AI bias examples” and talk about what could have been done differently.

🎨 CREATE: Your AI Safety Poster
Make your own “My AI Safety Poster.”
Include:
🔹 3 rules for using AI safely
🔹 2 safe types of questions to ask
🔹 1 thing you want to remember
🎨 Decorate it with drawings, colors, or photos.
📆 Save it as your phone or tablet lock screen for a week. Or print it and hang it on your refrigerator at home.

💬 REFLECT: Write or Share
📃 What surprised you most about using AI?
🤔 How did you feel reading the AI’s answers?
🌟 What new rule or habit will you use moving forward?
💖 How can you help a friend use AI safely?

🗃️ BONUS SEARCH
Search online:
🔍 “What are safe ways kids can use AI?”
🔍 “How do AI platforms protect your information?”
Write down 2 facts that surprised you!
]]><![CDATA[S1.1 - Be Seen, Not Exposed]]>Sun, 29 Jun 2025 18:44:46 GMThttps://www.black-liberation.tech/safety-first/s11✍🏽 Reflect & Write Questions: Practicing Safe Behavior Online
  1. Why do you think it’s risky to post your birthday or who you live with on social media? How could someone use that information in a bad way?
  2. Think about the last picture you posted or shared. What was in the background? Could anything personal be seen?
  3. Have you ever seen a picture online with someone’s car and license plate showing? How did that make you feel? What could go wrong if that information got into the wrong hands?
  4. Why might family pictures sometimes reveal more than we expect? Give an example of a photo that might seem harmless but could share too much.
  5. Imagine a stranger is looking at your photos or posts. What parts of your home would you not want them to see? Why?
  6. What’s something simple you can do before posting a picture to make sure it’s safe to share? Write down one or two steps you will take from now on. 
  7. What would you do if a friend posted a photo of you that shared too much personal info (like your house or school name)? How would you talk to them about it?
  8. Write a message to your future self reminding you how to stay safe online when sharing pictures or videos. Start your message with:​ "Hey future me, before you post, remember..."
Image of an African-American woman with Bantu knots working as an Education Data Security Analyst.
A professional portrait of an African-American woman with meticulously styled Bantu knots, showcasing her expertise as an Education Data Security Analyst.
Education Data Security Analyst 🏫🔐
Works with schools and universities to protect student records, grades, and personal data. Ensures compliance with laws like FERPA and prevents data breaches involving student information.
Community Workshop in a Church Fellowship Hall – “Digital Safety & Smart Posting”
​Setting: A small group of moms and daughters sit in folding chairs arranged in a circle. A sign near the front reads: "Be Seen, Not Exposed – Protecting What Matters Online." Ebony stands at the front with a digital tablet and a warm smile. There's a table with water bottles, notepads, and mini cupcakes nearby.

Ebony: Thank y’all for being here. I know your Saturdays are busy, so I promise to keep it real and keep it moving. We’re here to talk about what we post, how we post, and why it matters.

Ebony (holding up her tablet): Let’s start with a quick one. If I took a selfie in my kitchen right now and posted it to Instagram… what’s something in the background that could cause a problem?

Mia (14): Ooo, like your address on a package or something?

Ebony: Exactly. That’s detail in the background. I saw a girl post a “clean with me” video and forgot she had her school ID on the fridge. Some creep found out what school she went to.

Mrs. Allen (mom of 13-year-old twins): That’s crazy! These apps are cute until somebody shows up in your real life. I tell my girls all the time: check the background like you check your teeth in the mirror--every time.
(Everyone chuckles.)

Ebony (laughing): Yes, Mrs. Allen! That’s going on a T-shirt.

Naima (16): My friend posted a family BBQ video last summer, and her little cousin’s birth certificate was in the shot. I was like, “Girl… take that DOWN!”

Ebony: Whew! Y’all are proving my point better than I could. Your home is sacred. What’s in it—who’s in it—those things are for you, not the internet.

Jazlyn (12): Wait… so family pictures too?

Ebony: Yes, ma’am. Even family photos can give clues. A t-shirt with your school name, the view outside your window, a trophy with your last name on it—it all adds up. Folks zoom in.

Mrs. Rivera (quiet but firm): Can I say something? Last year, my niece posted a birthday photo of her new car. Her plates were showing. A week later someone tried to follow her home from the gas station.
(The room goes silent.)

Mrs. Rivera (voice rising): I was livid. Not at her—for not knowing. But at how fast it happened. That car picture was up for ten minutes. Ten.

Ebony (gently): Thank you for sharing that. That anger? That’s real. But so is the power we have when we know better. That’s what this space is for. No shame. Just lessons.

Tamara (15): So like… you shouldn’t even post your birthday?

Ebony: Here’s the deal—your birthdate, your address, who you live with—those are identity markers. Companies ask you those questions for a reason. And if someone’s trying to guess your password or fake your identity? That info helps them.

Mia (playfully): What if I just post “It’s my birthday!” but no year?

Ebony (smiling): Smart! That’s a safer move. Celebrate without the receipts.

Mrs. Allen (smirking): Okay, but what about us mamas? Sometimes we post y’all in pajamas with the house address on the mailbox. I’m guilty.

Ebony (grinning): We love y’all, but yes—even parents gotta check the frame! Your love can still be private and powerful.

Naima: So it’s not just about what we post—but what’s in the post?

Ebony: Exactly. What you post, what’s around you, what’s in the background—it all tells a story. The question is, who are you telling it to—and do they deserve the story?

Tamara (softly): I think I overshare sometimes. Not on purpose, but just… not thinking.

Ebony: We’ve all done it. But you just had your “ah ha” moment. That’s how we grow.

Mrs. Rivera: Can we get a checklist or something? Like “Before You Post: Did You…”

Ebony: Yes, ma’am! I got y’all. We’re gonna build that together. Before we wrap, let me leave you with this: Everything you post is a piece of you. Make sure every piece is safe, strong, and sacred.

Scene Closes
The room fills with a hum of conversation, a few hugs, and some thoughtful silence. Ebony walks over to Mia and quietly hands her a sticky note: “You’re more powerful than your posts. Use that power wisely.”
✅ Before You Post: Did You…?
 
🔵 Girls: Think Before You Post
  • Avoid showing your school name or uniform.
  • Keep birthdate, location, and driver's permit private.
  • Don’t post bedroom or bathroom selfies.
  • Ask permission before tagging a friend.
  • Don’t post “in the moment” (share later if it’s safe).


🔴 Moms: Lead by Example
  • Avoid posting children’s full names and school details.
  • Blur or block home addresses/license plates in photos.
  • Don’t overshare family routines or schedules.
  • Respect teens' privacy—ask before posting their pics.
  • Avoid "first day" signs that reveal school grade & teacher.


🟣 Both: Be Seen, Not Exposed
  • Check the background before posting (no IDs, documents, mail).
  • Use privacy settings and review your audience.
  • Ask: “Would I want a stranger to know this?”
  • Think long-term: Will this post still feel okay in 5 years?
  • Delete and report anything that feels unsafe or inappropriate.
🔍 Interactive Activity: “Spot the Scam & Secure the Bag”

Objective: Strengthen awareness of fraud risks and prevention strategies related to online financial transactions, PII, and digital visibility.

🧠 Overview
In this session, participants will:
  • Identify PII vulnerabilities in payment apps & social profiles
  • Learn to recognize scams involving Cash App, PayPal, Zelle, and Venmo
  • Conduct live research using trusted sources
  • Create a fraud prevention toolkit as a family or accountability team
  • Simulate a safe online money transfer scenario

🧾 Materials Needed
  • Smartphone or laptop
  • Internet access
  • Digital journal, notepad app, or worksheet
  • Sample cash transfer app screens (real or printed screenshots)
  • Optional: Review videos from ShyFraudTv [linked] YouTube Channel or TikTok

🗂️ Part 1: PII Heat Check — “What’s in Your Feed?” (15 mins)
Instructions:
  1. Open your favorite social media profile or post archive.
  2. Look for anything that may reveal financially sensitive PII, such as:
    • 📅 Full birthdate
    • 📷 Screenshots with visible credit/debit cards
    • 💸 Payment usernames (e.g., $YourName, @YourPayPalHandle)
    • 🧾 Receipts or order confirmations
    • 🧍 Tagging of family members ("My mom paid," "Dad's card")
Prompt:
In your digital notepad, write:
  • 🔐 What surprised you most?
  • 🧽 What did you delete, edit, or blur out?
  • 🎯 How would a scammer use that information?

💻 Part 2: Scam Sleuths — “Search It to Believe It” (20 mins)
Instructions:
Search engines ready! As a team, complete this research challenge. Use .gov, .org, or official app websites only. Answer these prompts in your notebook:
  1. 🔍 Search: “Top Cash App scams teens should know”
    → Write down 3 red flags from your findings.
  2. 🔍 Search: “Zelle fraud protection tips”
    → Find one thing Zelle does not do to protect users.
  3. 🔍 Search: “How to report fraud on PayPal”
    → Write down the steps to take if someone sends you a fake request.
  4. 🔍 Search: “Safe ways to accept money online as a student”
    → List 3 best practices.
  5. Bonus: Use Google or DuckDuckGo to search:
    “What is phishing?” + “Examples of payment scams on Instagram/TikTok.”
    → Summarize a real-world example and how it could’ve been prevented.

🛠️ Part 3: Build Your Family Fraud Toolkit (20 mins)
​Instructions:
With your partner, complete the Fraud Prevention Toolkit together. Discuss and document:
✅ Create a rule for:
  • When to share or request payment
  • What apps you use for different purposes
  • When to delete messages or block senders
  • What to do if you accidentally send money to the wrong person
✅ Set up:
  • Strong passwords for payment apps
  • Two-step verification for your accounts
  • Nicknames instead of real names in payment apps
✅ Make a “NEVER DO THIS” list:
  • Don’t send money to strangers
  • Don’t click unknown links to claim money
  • Don’t post your handle with: “Send me $5 and I’ll double it”

💬 Reflection Prompts (To Close the Session)
  • What’s something new you learned today about online payments?
  • What would you tell your best friend or younger sibling after this session?
  • Do you feel more confident spotting a scam? Why or why not?

✨ Optional Extension: Role-Play + Toolkit Share-Out (15 mins)
  • Choose a sample scam and act it out: one person plays the scammer, the other protects themselves.
  • Share your Toolkit tips with another pair and exchange ideas.
]]><![CDATA[S1.0 - Private Info, Public World]]>Sun, 29 Jun 2025 17:01:53 GMThttps://www.black-liberation.tech/safety-first/s10-private-info-public-worldReflect and Write: What is Personal Information and Why Does it Matter?
  1. Why do you think it's a bad idea to post your home address online?
    Write about what could happen if someone you don’t know finds out where you live.
  2. Have you ever seen someone share their phone number online?
    How did it make you feel? What advice would you give them?
  3. Think about your email address.
    Who should be allowed to see it, and why should you keep it private?
  4. What does “Stranger Danger” mean in the digital world?
    How is it the same or different from danger in real life?
  5. Imagine someone online starts asking personal questions like “Where do you live?” or “What school do you go to?”
    What would you do? Why is it important to think before you answer?
  6. Have you ever chatted with someone online that you didn’t know in real life?
    What steps did you take to stay safe—or what would you do differently next time?
  7. Why do you think some people feel safe sharing personal information on social media?
    What are some risks they might not be thinking about?
  8. If your younger cousin or sibling asked you about sharing personal info online, what would you tell them?
    Write a short letter giving them three safety tips.
African-American woman with long, vibrant purple locks, holding a smartphone, representing a Social Media Security Specialist.
A stylish African-American Social Media Security Specialist with striking purple braided locks thoughtfully holds a smartphone in a modern office environment.
Social Media Security Specialist 📱🧠
Protects users’ personal information and accounts on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. Investigates phishing attacks, prevents account takeovers, and designs better privacy settings.
After-school Tech Club Meeting
​Jazmin walks into the room smiling, her notebook in hand and her curly hair pulled into a puff. A group of about 10 girls of various backgrounds, ages 12–17, are waiting with snacks and open minds.

Jazmin: Hey everyone! It’s so good to see y’all again. Before we start, raise your hand if you’ve posted something online in the last 24 hours.
(Most hands go up. One girl raises both hands.)

Jazmin (laughing): Okay, two hands? What were you posting? Spill it.

Layla (13, playfully): A dance video and a “Get Ready With Me” from this morning. I was feelin’ myself!

Jazmin: Yesss, confidence! Love that. Now tell me… did you check your background before you posted?

Layla (pauses): Um… I think so? Wait—my house number might’ve been on the mailbox behind me.

Jazmin (gently): That’s real. It happens. But let’s talk about why that’s not just a detail—it’s personal. It’s location information. If someone wanted to find you... they could.

Destiny (14): Like those people who find where celebrities live?

Jazmin: Exactly. But you're the star in your story, too. You don’t need a million followers to have someone watching. Safety starts with protecting what’s yours—like your home address, phone number, and even your email.

Imani (16, raising hand): I actually had something happen last year. I was talking to someone online who seemed cool—like funny, always complimenting my outfits. But then he asked what school I went to... and I told him.
(Room gets quiet.)

Imani (voice shaking): Turns out, he was a grown man. Not even close to being a teen. My mom found out after he sent me a weird message about meeting up after practice. I was so embarrassed and scared. I felt dumb.

Jazmin (softly): Imani, thank you for being brave. You're not dumb. You were trusting—there’s a difference. That could happen to any of us. I’m glad you're safe.
(A few girls tear up. One hugs Imani. Jazmin places a hand over her heart.)

Marisol (15): Wait, so... are emails a big deal too? I thought it was just spam I had to worry about.

Jazmin: Good question! Emails are like keys to your digital life. If someone gets into your email, they can reset your passwords, read your personal messages, even pretend to be you.

Tiana (12): That happened to my cousin! Someone hacked her email and sent weird stuff to her teacher. She almost got suspended!

Jazmin: See? That’s a real consequence. Whether it’s your phone number, home address, or just chatting online--every piece of info is a puzzle piece. Don’t let strangers complete your puzzle.

Jazmin (lightening the mood): Okay, let’s do a quick test. I say the info—you say “Keep it private” if we shouldn’t share it.
  • Home address?
    Girls: Keep it private!
  • Phone number?
    Girls: Keep it private!
  • Your middle name and your favorite color combined as your password?
    Layla: Keep it private, but also… bad password, sis.
    (Laughter fills the room.)

Jazmin: Right?! Let’s not make it easy. And look—I’m not saying never share anything. I’m saying: share smart. Ask yourself, “Would I want someone I don’t know to see this?”

Imani (smiling a little): Now I ask myself: “Would Jazmin approve?”
(They all laugh again, and Jazmin wipes a tear while laughing.)

Jazmin: I love y’all. But even more, I want you safe. When you show up online, let it be on your terms—not someone else’s. Got it?

​All Girls:
Got it!
✨ Personal Information & Online Safety
 
🧠 Quick Recap
In today’s story, Jazmin met with a group of girls to talk about staying safe online. They talked about personal information, stranger danger, and real-life examples of what can happen when people share too much.


✍🏽 Reflect & Write Questions
  1. What are three pieces of personal information that you should keep private online?
  2. In your own words, why is it important to keep your home address and phone number off the internet?
  3. Imani shared a serious experience in the story. What stood out to you about her story?
  4. Think about your social media or online profiles. Are there any changes you might want to make after hearing this conversation? Explain.
  5. Jazmin said, “Every piece of info is a puzzle piece. Don’t let strangers complete your puzzle.” What do you think that means?
  6. Write a message or tip you would give to someone younger than you about staying safe online: "Hey there! One thing you should always remember when you're online is..." 
🔐 Interactive Activity: Social Media Safety Audit & Edit Challenge

Goal: Identify and edit or remove Personally Identifiable Information (PII) from images and videos shared or stored digitally.

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Team Up
Pair up: Each girl works with her mother (or guardian/mentor). This is a chance to teach and learn from one another. You will need to work from your phone, tablet, or laptop.

2. Search & Audit: The Safety Scan
🔍Time: 15–20 minutes
Check all the following locations for photos or videos that might include PII:
  • Social media posts (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, etc.)
  • Phone camera roll
  • Desktop or cloud storage (Google Photos, iCloud, etc.)
Look for things like:
  • 🏠 Home addresses (mailboxes, house numbers, street signs)
  • 📞 Phone numbers
  • 📧 Email addresses
  • 🚘 License plate numbers
  • 🧍 Faces of strangers or people who didn’t give permission
  • 🖼️ School logos or uniforms
  • 📍Visible locations (storefronts, landmarks)
Make a list of images/videos that contain any PII.

3. Decide: Delete, Edit, or Keep with Caution 🧠
With each image/video on your list, decide:
  • Delete it completely if it's unnecessary or too revealing
  • Edit it to remove or cover PII
  • Keep it as is only if it’s truly safe and appropriate

4. Edit Like a Pro: The Blur, Crop, and Cover-Up 🛠️
Now it's time to edit those images/videos—this is the fun, hands-on part!
Use your phone’s built-in editor, Instagram story tools, or free apps like:
  • Snapseed
  • PicsArt
  • Canva
  • CapCut (for video)
  • YouTube Studio (for blurring faces or backgrounds)
Challenge: Apply at least 2 of the following edits:
  • 🟦 Blur license plates or faces of strangers
  • ✂️ Crop out sensitive parts of an image (address, ID badge, school sign)
  • 🧷 Cover with stickers or emojis (mailbox, child’s face, logos)
  • 🪄 Replace background using filters or green screen features

5. Bonus Round: Practice with Sample Pics 📸
If you didn’t find any PII in your personal content, select “practice photos” to test your editing skills.

6. Reflect & Share: Lessons Learned 💬
​Answer these questions together in a digital journal, notepad, or worksheet:
  • What surprised you about what you found?
  • What editing tool or technique was most helpful to you?
  • How will this activity change the way you post or share images online?
  • What lessons about Personally Identifiable Information (PII) would you teach to someone younger than you?
]]>