Introduction:<br />With the increasing use of the internet in all aspects of life—from education to entertainment and social networking—young people are more vulnerable to hacking and data theft. That's why learning the basics of digital security has become essential for protecting identity and personal information.<br />First: What is digital security?<br />Digital security is a set of steps and procedures aimed at protecting information and files from unauthorized access, whether over the internet or via smart devices.<br />Second: What are the most significant digital threats facing young people?<br />Hacking and account theft<br />Such as hacking email or social media accounts.<br />Malware<br />Programs downloaded without your knowledge that spy on or destroy your files.<br />Phishing<br />Fake messages or websites that attempt to trick you into giving up your passwords or banking information.<br />Cyberbullying or blackmail<br />Using personal photos or messages to pressure or harm you.<br /> Third: How do you protect your data online?<br />Use strong, unique passwords<br />- Make them long, contain symbols and numbers, and avoid using your name or date of birth.<br />- Don't use the same password on every website.<br />Enable two-factor authentication.<br />It adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, such as Google and Instagram.<br />Beware of suspicious links.<br />Don't click on any link you receive from an untrusted source, even if it appears official.<br />Update your devices regularly.<br />System updates help close security vulnerabilities.<br />Use antivirus software to protect your device from malware and spyware.<br />Don't share your personal information, such as your mobile number, home address, or sensitive photos, with anyone online.<br />Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi, such as those found in cafes or unprotected public places.<br /> Fourth: Useful tools and tips:<br />Use a password manager like Bitwarden or LastPass.<br />Delete old accounts you don't use.<br />Check app permissions that access your camera or location.<br />Follow digital security news to learn about new threats.<br />Conclusion:<br />Digital security isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for every young person using the internet. Every simple step you take today—such as changing your password or enabling two-factor authentication—can protect you from significant losses in the future.<br /><br />Al _ Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq<br />Prepared by: Shahad Nawras Abbas<br />