The Badge Archive

Fulfills Step 4 of GSUSA Ambassador Cybersecurity Safeguards badge requirements.

Info Needed for the badge requirements: Your digital safety depends on your habits. Positive actions, like using two-factor authentication, updating passwords and software, or keeping accounts private, help protect your data. Negative habits, like sharing personal info online, using public Wi-Fi, or reusing passwords, can make you vulnerable. Be intentional with what you do online to safeguard your future opportunities and personal security.

Items Needed

• A clear area large enough for scouts to move forward and backward safely.

Instructions

1. Form a straight line, shoulder to shoulder, with enough space in front and behind each scout.
2. Explain that scouts will respond to prompts about cybersecurity habits by stepping forward or backward based on their own practices.
3. Begin reading the statements, alternating between “Step Forward” and “Step Backward” prompts to keep the activity dynamic.
4. Continue alternating prompts until all statements have been read.
5. Once finished, ask scouts to look at their positions compared to the rest of the group.

Prompt Suggestions

• Step Forward if You…
  • Know how to adjust the privacy settings on your social media accounts.
  • Have changed one of your passwords in the past month.
  • Know how to disable location services on your devices.
  • Personally know all your social media “friends” in real life.
  • Have antivirus software on your computer.
  • Keep all your software up to date.
  • Regularly back up your files.
  • Know how to wipe data from your hard drive (not just empty the trash).
  • Use two-factor authentication (e.g., receiving a code via text when logging in from a new device).
  • Know what to do if you receive a suspicious email.
  • Keep your webcam covered when not in use.
  • Delete accounts and apps when you’re done with them.
• Step Backward if You…
  • Have made a purchase from a public computer (e.g., at school or a library).
  • Have accessed a bank or online payment system on a public computer or public Wi-Fi.
  • Use the same password for multiple accounts.
  • Have clicked on a link in a pop-up ad out of curiosity.
  • Regularly connect with people on social media whom you don’t know.
  • Have shared a password with a friend.
  • Delay updating your software regularly.
  • Include personal information (like full name or address) in online profiles.
  • Used public Wi-Fi in the past month.
  • Use passwords that contain personal information (like your birthday or pet’s name).
  • Regularly post your location and activities on social media.