Securing the Internet of Things
Help students understand the risks associated with the use of internet connected devices and apps. This is a CyberDay4Girls Activity Kit.
Activity Duration
1.5 Hours
Preparation Time
1 – 2 Hours
Estimated Cost of Materials
USD $0
Audience Age
11+
Topic
Internet of Things, IBM CyberDay4Girls
Languages
English
Details
From mobile phones to smart thermostats, internet connected devices and apps are a part of our children’s everyday lives. In this Activity Kit, students will learn about the Internet of Things (IoT) and the importance of following cybersecurity best practices when connecting to their devices. We have designed this workshop particularly for girls in response to the significant gender gap in the cybersecurity profession. Though this CyberDay4Girls Activity Kit was designed to be used in a classroom, it can also be adapted to be used with your children at home.
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This activity kit will require the following resources:
- PowerPoint presentation capabilities
- Internet connection to show the videos
Instructions
Watch the two videos below to know more about the Internet of Things. These videos are included on the presentation deck as well.
Watch the IBM Think Academy video to learn about mobile security.
Start by reading the Activity Kit guide. It contains important information about the nature and goals of this Activity Kit.
Read the presentation deck beforehand. Make sure to look at the speaker notes for additional guidance.
The deck includes two options for the threat modeling exercise: sports scenarios or household devices. Choose one only.
- If using the sports scenarios, focus on slides 17 through 23
- If using the household devices, focus on slides 30 through 38
The presentation deck includes two options for the introductory videos to show the class. Select one. The videos can also be found under the Learn section on this page.
Print a copy of the threat modeling worksheet per participant.
If you wish, print out one copy of each assigned scenario or device to hand out to each group.
Check that the classroom where you will present has PowerPoint capabilities and internet connection.
Rehearse the presentation, preferably to an audience. Getting familiar with the material before the activity will help you run it smoothly and prepare for questions.
In order to get started, set up your computer to display the PowerPoint. Throughout the presentation, be sure to reference the speaker notes to help guide you.
The threat modelling exercise is a group activity, so girls should be split into groups. Groups of 5 or 6 are ideal.
- Assign one sports scenario or household device per group.
- Distribute one copy of the threat modelling worksheet per student and ensure everyone has a pen.
- Give the teams just 10 minutes to conduct the exercise. Encourage them to make it fun and to work collaboratively.
- Have each team select a spokesperson per group. Have spokespersons volunteer to share what their group came up with.
