One hour
A focused introduction with selected ideas, a guided activity and discussion.
Beware of the Algorithms
Digital safety & resilience in the age of AI
Recognise scams, protect your privacy, and understand how algorithms and AI influence everyday life.
Ask about this courseOne hour, one day or one week. Audience, activities and arrangements are confirmed by enquiry.
Overview
Technology has transformed our lives, but with great power comes great risk. Beware of the Algorithms is a deep dive into the darker side of the digital world—from scams and social media addiction to digital surveillance and artificial intelligence-powered misinformation. As our lives move further into the digital realm, it is crucial to be aware of the hidden risks, equipping ourselves with digital safety, privacy, and security skills to navigate this evolving landscape.
Audience and prerequisites
Students & Young Internet Users – Understand the risks of being online and build safe habits. Senior Citizens & New Internet Users – Avoid scams and misinformation targeting vulnerable groups. Women & At-Risk Communities – Stay protected in the face of digital harassment and cyber exploitation. Journalists & Activists – Protect your sensitive sources and data from surveillance and cyberattacks. Tech Professionals & Developers – Learn the hidden flaws in the systems we trust. Researchers & Academics – Study real-world examples of cybersecurity failures and defenses. Whether you are new to the internet, work with sensitive data, or simply want to take control of your privacy and security, this course is designed to empower you with the knowledge to be alert.
Starting experience and any preparation are agreed with the host, so the selected activities fit the group.
What participants explore and make
- Digital Surveillance & Privacy Risks – How your data is collected, sold, and used against you.
- Scams, Social Engineering & Dark Web – Learn how cybercriminals exploit human psychology.
- AI-Powered Misinformation & Manipulation – The rise of deepfakes, fake news, and digital propaganda.
- Social Media Addiction & Mental Health – How platforms are designed to keep you hooked and vulnerable.
- Hacking & Cybersecurity – Ethical hacking basics, protecting your data, and testing your own security.
- Defending Against AI Manipulation – Strategies to identify and fight against AI-generated disinformation.
Choose a format
One day
Guided exercises, discussion and time to apply a selected set of ideas.
One week
Extended exploration, iterative practice and reflection around an agreed project or set of questions.
These are offered formats. Scope and activities are agreed for the audience; the complete outline below is a reference, not a promise to cover every topic in the shortest format.
Practical requirements
Before confirming, agree the group’s language, accessibility requirements, setting, group size and available equipment. Device, internet and software needs depend on the selected activities and must be checked with the host. A tool named in an outline does not imply a paid account or licence is included.
Discuss the group and formatTools and materials to discuss
Cybersecurity Tools & Encryption Methods – Learn about VPNs, firewalls, and encryption strategies.
Psychological Tactics Used in Scams – How hackers manipulate people into giving up sensitive information.
Government & Corporate Surveillance – Understanding how personal data is tracked and exploited.
Live Hacking Demonstrations – Ethical hacking case studies to show real security vulnerabilities.
Examples from the practice
Related teaching, talks, research and creative work provide context for these questions. Their recorded dates and credits remain with each example.
- Digital Safety Class for Govt. School girls
- Public Disclosure of CCTV system security flaws
- Hacked into Flipkart's Ebook Platform Protection Challenge
- Masterclass on digital platforms for Entrepreneurs
Learning in practice
January 2010–February 2012
Cybersecurity in Hindi
Early teaching that used cybersecurity as a route into programming for Hindi-speaking students.
Self-documented teaching historyLearning outline
Module 1: The Hidden Side of Technology
Understanding how algorithms shape our digital experiences. How social media and AI manipulate behavior. Real-world case studies on digital surveillance.
Module 2: Cybersecurity & Ethical Hacking Basics
How hackers think and operate. Protecting your personal data from cyberattacks. Examining security flaws in everyday devices.
Module 3: The Dark Web & Online Threats
Introduction to the dark web: Myths vs. reality. Common scams, frauds, and phishing attacks. Tracking and understanding cybercriminal tactics.
Module 4: Social Media & Mental Health
The psychology behind addiction to digital platforms. How social media algorithms are designed to exploit users. Techniques to take control of your digital life.
Module 5: AI, Fake News & Misinformation
The rise of AI-generated content and deepfakes. Spotting and resisting misinformation campaigns. How AI is used in digital propaganda and social engineering.
Module 6: Advanced Digital Safety & Resilience
Tools for anonymous and secure internet usage. Encryption, VPNs, and protecting digital footprints. Building a resilient approach to online safety.
Additional learning aims
These are intended learning aims from the outline, not measured outcomes.
Identify & Avoid Digital Threats – Gain the ability to recognize online scams, fraud, and hacking attempts.
Secure Your Online Presence – Learn tools and techniques to protect your privacy and identity.
Fight Against Digital Misinformation – Develop strategies to detect AI-generated propaganda and fake news.
Become a Responsible Digital Citizen – Understand the ethical and social impact of algorithms and AI.