PENINGKATAN LITERASI KEAMANAN DIGITAL SISWA MELALUI EDUKASI KEAMANAN AKUN DIGITAL

Abstract

Background: The high intensity of internet use among adolescents is not always accompanied by adequate digital security literacy, increasing their vulnerability to various cyber threats, including account hacking, personal data theft, cyberbullying, online fraud, and digital identity misuse. Objective: This Community Service Program (PKM) aimed to improve students’ knowledge, awareness, and skills in implementing digital account security as a preventive measure against cybercrime. Methods: The program was conducted at SMK 13 Yadika Tambun and involved 210 students as participants. A participatory training design was implemented through interactive instruction, demonstrations, hands-on practice, discussions, and case studies. Results: The evaluation results indicated improved participants’ understanding following the program, particularly in identifying cyber threats, protecting personal data, using strong passwords, managing account privacy settings, and practicing safe and responsible digital media use. Contribution: Practically, this program equipped students with applicable knowledge and skills to protect their digital accounts and personal data from cybercrime risks. Academically, the program contributes a practice-based digital account security education model that can be adapted to digital literacy initiatives in school settings. The collaboration between higher education institutions and schools highlights the importance of an educational-preventive approach to strengthening digital security literacy and fostering students’ development as safe, critical, and responsible digital citizens.