The internet connects computers worldwide; the web is the pages you visit with a browser. Knowing how addresses and links work protects you from scams.
A web address (URL) like https://www.example.co.uk/help has a domain — the important part is just before the first single slash: example.co.uk.
Scammers use look-alike domains: paypal.com.secure-login.net is actually on secure-login.net.
The padlock and https mean the connection is encrypted. It does NOT prove the site is honest — scam sites can have padlocks too.
Phishing is a message pretending to be a bank, delivery firm or friend to get your password or money. Warning signs: urgency, threats, odd addresses, requests for codes.
If unsure, do not click the link. Go to the company's site yourself or phone a number you trust.
Use strong, different passwords and turn on two-step verification where offered.
Worked example 1
A text says ‘Your parcel is held. Pay £1.45 at royalmail-redelivery-uk.info’. Is it genuine?
The domain is royalmail-redelivery-uk.info, not the official royalmail.com.
It creates urgency and asks for a small payment — a common trick to get card details.
Answer: Almost certainly a scam. Do not click; check on the official site.
Try it online · print it · check it
Practice questions
Beginner · ages 9+
Internet basics and safe browsing
NameDate
Answer each question.
1.In https://shop.example.com/offers, what is the domain?
2.Does a padlock prove a website is trustworthy? (yes/no)
3.What is the name for fake messages that try to steal passwords?
4.In amazon.account-check.co, which company owns the domain: Amazon or account-check?
5.Should you share a one-time security code with a caller from ‘your bank’? (yes/no)
Beginner · answersAnswer key
Internet basics and safe browsing — answer key
Answer each question.
1.In https://shop.example.com/offers, what is the domain?example.com
2.Does a padlock prove a website is trustworthy? (yes/no)no
3.What is the name for fake messages that try to steal passwords?phishing
4.In amazon.account-check.co, which company owns the domain: Amazon or account-check?account-check
5.Should you share a one-time security code with a caller from ‘your bank’? (yes/no)no
