Awareness workshop on cybercrime, substance abuse and mobile addiction

Pass It On Trust conducted a one-day awareness workshop for the students of Bishop Sargent School, Gopalpur, focusing on three issues affecting young people: cybercrime, substance abuse and mobile phone addiction.

The workshop aimed to educate students about the potential risks associated with unsafe online activities, substance abuse and excessive use of mobile phones. The programme encouraged students to make responsible choices, use technology wisely, protect themselves from harmful influences and develop healthy habits.

1. Cyber safety

The meaning of cyber-crime and cyber safety.
Common cyber-crimes affecting students: cyberbullying, online cheating and fraud, hacking and identity theft, fake social-media accounts, phishing and suspicious links, and online harassment and threats.
The importance of strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
Never share OTPs, passwords, PINs or personal information with others.
Think carefully before accepting online friend requests.
Avoid sharing private photographs, location and school or personal details.
Recognise fake news, fake profiles and suspicious messages.
The importance of maintaining a positive digital footprint.

What to do when something goes wrong: do not respond impulsively; save evidence and screenshots; block and report the account; inform parents, teachers or a trusted adult; and report serious incidents to the appropriate cybercrime authorities.

2. Substance abuse

The meaning of substance abuse and addiction.
Common substances that can cause dependence: tobacco and nicotine products, alcohol, inhalants, misuse of medicines and illegal drugs.
Why young people may experiment: peer pressure, curiosity, stress, family problems and the desire to fit in.
Short-term and long-term effects on physical health, brain development, emotional wellbeing, studies and concentration, and family and friendships.
Understanding peer pressure and learning to say "no".
Myths and misconceptions about drugs and alcohol.
Healthy alternatives for managing stress: sports and exercise, music and creative activities, prayer and meditation, talking to trusted adults, and counselling.
The importance of seeking help early rather than hiding a problem.
Building a supportive school environment where students can ask for help without fear or shame.

3. Mobile addiction

The difference between healthy mobile use and problematic or excessive use.
Warning signs: constantly checking the phone, difficulty stopping screen use, neglecting studies or responsibilities, reduced sleep, irritability when the phone is unavailable, loss of interest in outdoor activities, and reduced face-to-face interaction.
Effects of excessive use: poor concentration, sleep problems, eye strain, reduced physical activity, academic difficulties, social isolation and emotional stress.
The dangers of excessive gaming and social-media use, and the importance of screen-time boundaries.
Keep mobile phones away during study time, meals, family conversations and before bedtime.
Follow a healthy digital detox routine, and give priority to sleep, exercise, hobbies, reading and real-life relationships.
Use technology as a tool, not as something that controls daily life.

The message to students

Be smart, be safe, be responsible — online and offline.

Think before you click. Think before you share. Say no to harmful substances. Use your mobile; don't let your mobile use you. Ask for help when you need it. Choose healthy friendships and positive activities.

Workshop activities

Ice-breaker activity — "My Digital Life"
Short presentation on cyber crime
Role play — cyberbullying and peer pressure
Group discussion — "Is my mobile controlling me?"
Case studies — identifying risky online behaviour
Quiz — cyber safety and substance awareness
Demonstration — identifying suspicious messages and links
Personal pledge — responsible digital and healthy lifestyle
Question-and-answer session
Counselling and help-seeking session