Scout The Scam

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<<type 30ms>>\Beep... Beep... System activated. Please enter your nickname in the box below. <<textbox "$name" "player">> And then select your age range. <<set $gamebegun = 0>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ 0-20 years old]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ 20-40 years old.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ 40-60 years old.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ 60+ years old.]]</button> \<</type>>

<<set $gamebegun = 1>> As I would have hoped, $name. Now, select a module. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module One]]</button> Recognize and defend yourself from artificial intelligence. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Two]]</button> Scams in text messages. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Three]]</button> Cookies and internet safety.

<<set $gamebegun = 2>>In this module, you will learn tactics and patterns scammers use and how to detect them. You’ll learn to pause, look at scams with a critical eye, and double-check any information you’re given. <<set $scamscore = 0>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Urgency is a scammer's best friend]]</button>

<<set $games = 0>><<set $gamebegun = 2>>In this module, you will learn how realistic AI can be, and how difficult it is to detect! AI is everywhere on the internet, so it’s important to learn not to trust everything you see. <<set $AIwritingscore = 0>><<set $AIimagesscore = 0>> People on the internet are using AI (artificial intelligence) to make fake photos and videos that are deceptively realistic. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's begin.]]</button>

In this module, you will learn what cookies are and how to decline them. Cookies seem harmless, but they’re tools used by companies to steal your information, which they then sell to scammers and other companies to manipulate you. <<set $gamebegun = 2>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ For your first question...]]</button>

@@.center; <<if $gamebegun is 2>><div id="blue-space"><span class = "tinyfont"><<button "➤ HOME SCREEN" '➤ HOME SCREEN'>><</button>><<button "➤ MODULE SELECTION" '➤ MODULE SELECTION'>><</button>><<button "➤ ABOUT ME" '➤ ABOUT ME'>><</button>><<button "➤ CREDITS" '➤ CREDITS'>><</button>><<button "➤ BACK" `previous()`>><</button>></span></div> @@ <</if>><<if $gamebegun is 1>> @@.center; <div id="blue-space"><span class = "tinyfont"><<button "➤ HOME SCREEN" '➤ HOME SCREEN'>><</button>><<button "➤ ABOUT ME" '➤ ABOUT ME'>><</button>><<button "➤ CREDITS" '➤ CREDITS'>><</button>><<button "➤ BACK" `previous()`>><</button>></span></div> @@ <</if>>

I'm sure you've seen pop ups like this one before: <img src="https://indulge.digital/sites/default/files/sites/all/default/files/default/vodafone-uk-cookie-pop-up.png" width="512" height="256"> <div class="base64image"></div> Cookies are a tracking device used in websites to track where you go, what you do, and who you are. They will collect as much personal information on you as they can. Remember, there will almost always be a way for you to reject cookies. Experiment with what you can click! If you can turn off a cookie button, you should try to. However, *Essential Cookies* you will be unable to turn off. Usually, they are harmless and will not take any personal information. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Onto the game!]]</button>

Congrats, $name. You've completed module one. In the current day and age, AI is everywhere, and it's more important than ever to know how to spot it. The images will look real, convincing, and imperfect. And it will become difficult to spot fact from fiction. Photography can no longer be inherently trusted. <<set $onecomplete = true>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's do another module!]] </button>

<<if $onecomplete == true && $twocomplete == true && $threecomplete == true>>Woah, $name... it appears you've completed all three modules. Would you like to do any of them over again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes.]]</button> Or, would you like to continue onto the Final Challenge? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Final Challenge please.]]</button><<else>>Choose where to go next. <<if $onecomplete == false>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module One]]</button> Recognize and defend yourself from misleading AI. <<else>> Module One: Completed. (Recognize and defend yourself from AI.) <</if>><<if $twocomplete == true>> Module Two: Completed. (Scams in text messages.) <<else>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Two]]</button> Scams in text messages.<</if>><<if $threecomplete == false>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Three]]</button> Cookies and internet safety. <<else>> Module Three: Completed. (Cookies and internet safety.) <</if>> <</if>>

Please wait for the game to load below. This should be an example of a regular cookie pop up you'd see on websites. Usually, people click accept. But remember, you don't always have to accept the cookie. Try clicking preferences and play around from there! All types of cookies except necessary will sell your info, so make sure to turn them off. <iframe width="400" height="620" style="border: 0px;" src="https://studio.code.org/projects/applab/DuwnNwI5fne0-ffN_wrdMEf0C_3lReESk0Of4rhUH6U/embed"></iframe> I hope you learned that you don't always have to "eat the cookie." And can choose to decline it. What score did you get? <<set $score = 0>> Your Score was.... <button class="btn info">[[➤ A zero]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A one]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A two]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A three]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A four]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A five]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A six!]]</button>

<<set $score = 0>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Do you want to try again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

<<set $score = 1>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Do you want to try the game again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

<<set $score = 2>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Do you want to try again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

<<set $score = 3>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Do you want to try again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

<<set $score = 4>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Do you want to try again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

<<set $score = 5>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Do you want to try again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

<<set $score = 6>> <<set $module = 3>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $score, age: $age}); >> Congrats! You got a perfect score! Would you want to play it again? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, I'm okay.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, please!]]</button>

Congrats, $name. You've completed module three! Now that you've completed the cookie game, you can (hopefully) apply this to real life. When you enter a website, you'll notice the pop-up and know what to click to avoid having your information sold! It's easier to simply click accept, however, companies make it seem like way more trouble then it's worth to disable cookies. When, in reality, it isn't that difficult at all! <<set $threecomplete = true>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's do another module!]]</button> If you want to figure out how to clear your previous cookies data, <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/95647?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">check out what Google has to say!</a></a>

Please wait for it to load. The game should be below. And remember! If you have any trouble clicking the buttons in the first cookie game, trying clicking the space between the purple oval! <iframe width="392" height="620" style="border: 0px;" src="https://studio.code.org/projects/applab/DuwnNwI5fne0-ffN_wrdMEf0C_3lReESk0Of4rhUH6U/embed"></iframe> I hope you learned that you don't always have to "eat the cookie." And can choose to decline it. What score did you get? <<set $score = 0>> Your Score was.... <button class="btn info">[[➤ A zero]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A one]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A two]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A three]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A four]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A five]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A six!]]</button>

It's a text from an unknown number!! *WARNING: You should try to be cautious of all texts that are from an unknown number. It says: "Hey, $name!" Do you: <button class="btn info">[[find out more]]</button> or <button class="btn info">[[block immediately]]</button>

You ask who it is, and the unknown number tells you it's your son! Do you: <button class="btn info">[[➤ Trust it. It knows my son's name, doesn't it?]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Wait, doesn't my son have another number?]]</button>

Safe choice! It's always best to lean on the side of caution, even though being too guarded can result in you accidentally blocking someone you know. Feel safe to block random numbers that don't provide you with strong evidence of who they are. And, no matter what, anyone asking for money from you online is a ''giant'' red flag. Make sure to never go along with it unless you can get solid in-person confirmation. And remember, if someone begins to pressure you into giving them money with a time limit, always try to remain calm and think rationally. Because... <button class="btn info">[[➤ Urgency is a scammer's best friend]]</button>

If this is the case, DON'T click the links provided to you and instead search up the organization online and go through the official website, which will have the truth in it, not whatever the scammer is telling you. If you remain worried about the email or text message, contact someone on the official website or a trusted friend/family member to help you out. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's try it out.]]</button>

He explains that he recently got a new number and is trying to locate all his contacts. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Ah, well that explains it.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question him some more.]]</button>

Actually, it's very easy for scammers to gain access to personal information! If you trust it, there's a really strong chance it's a scammer attempting to impersonate your son instead. So, to make sure you don't blindly trust this, try talking to it a bit more! <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question him about your son having a different number]]</button>

It certainly seems like your son, but you can't be a hundred percent certain yet, can you? Not unless you're talking with your son in-person and he confirms it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ So, maybe one more question is in order.]]</button>

You ask him to tell you something only your son will know. This can help weed out if he is a scammer or not. Calling him is helpful too, although AI can replicated faces and voices, so remain cautious. If he is able to tell you information about him that isn't easily accessed online, AND you're able to see his face and hear his voice in a video call: then, most likely, he's your son! And it's really awful that he needed to change numbers. Still, remain wary. And, if you aren't able to confirm that this is your son and he begins to ask you for money, decline until you can be certain that it is your son. Anyone asking for money from you online is a ''giant'' red flag. Make sure to never go along with it unless you can get solid in-person confirmation. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Urgency is a scammer's best friend]]</button>

Urgency is one of the key reasons a scammer is able to target a victim. They may pretend to know your family, or your friends. They will create pressure with a time limit and use the stress to make you lower your defenses and keep you from analyzing it and finding flaws. All to convince you to give up money or information they can use. You can always reach out to someone you know or trust in a separate channel to get help on how to better handle these situations. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Tell me more tactics scammers use.]]</button>

You ask him to tell you something only your son will know. This can help weed out if he is a scammer or not. Calling him is helpful too, although AI can replicate faces and voices, so remain cautious. If he is able to tell you information about him that isn't easily accessed online, AND you're able to see his face and hear his voice in a video call: then, most likely, he's your son! And it's really awful that he needed to change numbers. Still, remain wary. And, if you aren't able to confirm that this is your son and he begins to ask you for money, decline until you can be certain that it is your son. Anyone asking for money from you online is a ''giant'' red flag. Make sure to never go along with it unless you can get solid in-person confirmation. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Urgency is a scammer's best friend]]</button>

Here are some key attributes of a scammer email/text, usually when they're pretending to be someone you know. *Asking you for money *Using urgency *Pretending to be a loved one or to be texting you about a loved one Someone asking you for money is a ''giant'' red flag. Always watch out for that. Also be wary if someone or something: * tells you you're in legal trouble for something that doesn't make sense * asks you to renew a subscription for something you don't have * makes bold claims about your bank account or any other kind of account <button class="btn info">[[➤ "But I'm really certain it isn't a scam!"]]</button>

<img src="https://ik.imagekit.io/r4rsqt4le/IMG_3251.jpg?updatedAt=1760125007893" class = "logo"><div class="base64image"></div> Okay, do you believe this text meessage to be a scam? <<set $numbertime = 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because it doesn't have a contact, it's just a phone number.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because the way it's written is clunky and feels very sketchy.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because companies don't contact through text message unless you give them your phone number... and even then it's usually unlikely.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, because it says it's from ARCO.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, because it doesn't appear to be a scam.]]</button>

Just because it claims it's from the DMV doesn't mean it is! It's better to be skeptical about things like this. Anyone can claim to be anything. So it simply saying it's from DMV isn't enough. However, no matter <em>how</em> possible that it isn't a scam, you still need to be careful, just in case! What could you do to be sure? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click on the link provided by the text message to check.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Go onto the official website to make sure this is false.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Contact the company through official channels not provided in the text to clarify.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond to the text with questions.]]</button>

What part of it doesn't appear to be a scam? It's sent on a number you have no prior interaction with, claiming to be a company without providing any proof. Even if there was a part of it that made it a hundred percent legitimate in your eyes, you still should double check just to make sure. No matter <em>how</em> possible that it isn't a scam, you still need to be careful, just in case! But this is almost certainly a scam. Still, what will you do to be sure? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click on the link provided by the text message to check.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Go onto the official website to make sure this is false.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Contact the company through official channels not provided in the text to clarify.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond to the text with questions.]]</button>

You don't want to do that! The link the text message provides might not be an official link. It might be a scam link trying to lead you to a copy website. Instead, go onto the search engine on your phone or computer and search for the official website! Google will almost always bring up what you're looking for in one of the first few results. (Just make sure you don't click on any websites labeled with 'ad') From there, check the official website to see if what the message is saying is true. It usually won't be, but if it IS, do not go back and contact the message. Stay on the official website and fix the problem from there. <<if $numbertime is 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Next one!!]]</button> <<else>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's continue]]</button> <</if>>

That is the perfect thing to do! <<set $scamscore = $scamscore + 1>> Go onto the search engine on your phone or computer and search for the official website! Google will almost always bring up what you're looking for in one of the first few results. (Just make sure you don't click on any websites labeled with 'ad') From there, check the official website to see if what the message is saying is true. It usually won't be, but if it IS, do not go back and contact the message. Stay on the official website and fix the problem from there. <<if $numbertime is 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Next one!!]]</button> <<else>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's continue]]</button> <</if>>

This is perfect! Do not use the channel provided by the text but instead go on your own through a search engine to see if it's true through the source itself. You can call the official number, investigate your own account, contact help, or have a friend look over it with you. <<set $scamscore = $scamscore + 1>> <<if $numbertime is 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Next one!!]]</button> <<else>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's continue]]</button> <</if>>

This may or may not work well in your favor. In general, I would advise against this. Any sort of engagement can result in the scam continuing to attempt to get money and information out of you. And, they might be able to trick you into doing so. It's best to go through an outer channel to double check. Instead, don't interact with it in any way and double check through outside means. <<if $numbertime is 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Next one!!]]</button> <<else>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's continue]]</button> <</if>>

You're correct, it is a scam but not just because it doesn't have a contact. Companies sometimes will contact you through text! However, you should still always remain wary, even if you determine the text message as safe. No matter how possible that it isn't a scam! What will you do to be sure? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click on the link provided by the text message to check.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Go onto the official website to make sure this is false.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Contact the company through official channels not provided in the text to clarify.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond to the text with questions.]]</button>

You're right! Companies don't contact you through text unless you specifically give them your info. <<set $scamscore = $scamscore + 1>> This is a key part in determining whether something is a scam. The question you should be asking is: Does this message make sense knowing what I know about the company and my most recent interactions with the company? And even if both answers are yes, it still wouldn't dismiss the possibility that it isn't a scam. You still need to be careful, just in case! What could you do to be sure? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click on the link provided by the text message to check.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Go onto the official website to make sure this is false.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Contact the company through official channels not provided in the text to clarify.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond to the text with questions.]]</button>

That's true and a huge indicator of scams. But is that it? If everything else is legitimate, don't be too quick to dismiss the message. This one, however, was a scam and you were correct!!! Just make sure that no matter how confident you are that it isn't a scam, you still need to be careful, just in case! What could you do to be sure on whether this is or isn't a scam? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click on the link provided by the text message to check.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Go onto the official website to make sure this is false.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Contact the company through official channels not provided in the text to clarify.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond to the text with questions.]]</button>

It's important to remember not to let the message scare or terrify you. Make sure to ask yourself if this makes sense. And remember the three Rs: Rest. Research. Rethink. Stop what you're doing. Double check if it's true. Think about how possible/likely it could be. And make sure to remain level headed. If you're unsure, it's always good to ask someone else and get a second pair of eyes to help you out. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's do another one]]</button>

Why? <<textbox "$answer" "">> <button class="btn info">[[➤ See Answer]]</button>

<img src="https://ik.imagekit.io/r4rsqt4le/IMG_3253.jpg?updatedAt=1760125278791" width="768" height="1536"> <div class="base64image"></div> Okay, do you believe this one to be a scam? <<set $numbertime = 2>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because it doesn't have a contact, it's just a phone number.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because the way it's written is clunky and feels very sketchy.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because companies don't contact through text message unless you give them your phone number... and even then it's usually unlikely.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, because it says it's from the DMV.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, because it doesn't appear to be a scam.]]</button>

Whatever your reasoning, you're correct! It was a scam :) <<set $scamscore = $scamscore + 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ I think I got the hang of it.]]</button>

Why? <<textbox "$answer" "">> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Actually... I think it's a scam.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, it's definitely not. See answer.]]</button>

Perfect! Time for another module! Unless you want to start over? <<set $module to 2>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $scamscore, age: $age}); >> <<set $twocomplete = true>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's start over.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's do another module!]]</button>

Why? <<textbox "$answer" "">> <button class="btn info">[[➤ See Answer]]</button>

It was a scam! I'd recommend reviewing this lesson over again to help hone your scam senses. <<set $module to 2>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $scamscore, age: $age}); >> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's start over.]]</button> <<set $twocomplete = true>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's do another module!]]</button>

Choose where to return to. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module One]]</button> Recognize and defend yourself from misleading AI. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Two]]</button> Scams in text messages. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Three]]</button> Cookies and internet safety.

Question 1! What are cookies on the internet? <<set $scorecounter = 0>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ A tasty treat! It's a pastry]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Cookies are a tracking device used in websites to track which websites you visit, what you click on in that website, and to record personal information.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Cookies are something annoying companies ask you about for no reason.]]</button>

Correct! <<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 2]]</button>

Haha. No, it's not that at all. Accepting cookies means they can collect information of what they do in that website, and then sell it. So they'll track what you do and whatever personal information you give them. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 2]]</button>

How bad are cookies? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Terrible. You should never accept them and you should clear all of your cookie data.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Depends, but if it's a website where you want to be remembered, it can be useful. (Ex: If you want your Amazon Shopping Cart to keep all the items you put in)]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Fine? They don't really matter.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Great! Accept all of the cookies!]]</button>

While, yes, cookies are harmful and involve stealing and selling of your personal information, if you WANT a website to remember something about you, it's best not to click decline cookies. Otherwise decline away! <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 3]]</button>

They definitely do matter! They're tools companies use to steal and SELL information about you. If you WANT a website to remember something about you, it's best not to click decline cookies. Otherwise, if you want to keep your privacy, decline the cookies! <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 3]]</button>

If you WANT a website to remember something about you, it's best not to click decline cookies. Otherwise, if you want to keep your privacy, decline the cookies! They're what companies use to spy on you and steal information about you. They record what you click on and all the information you give them. So, unless you want that sold to other companies and used to manipulate the ads and tech environment around you, it's best to decline. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 3]]</button>

If an icon at the bottom of the website pops up, asking you to accept cookies or click preferences. Which do you pick? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Accept]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Preferences]]</button>

No!! I understand that it's easier to click that, but if you really want to protect your privacy, clicking preferences will lead you to a page where you can decline or turn off as many cookies as you can. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 4]]</button>

<<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>>Exactly! And once you're in there, clicking preferences will lead you to a page where you can decline or turn off as many cookies as you can. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 4]]</button>

What are the three Rs? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Rest, Relax, Relieve]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Rest, Research, Rethink]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Really Red Raindrops]]</button>

Is there a surefire way to tell if an image is real or AI generated? <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, sometimes you can tell but AI has gotten so advanced it is difficult to discern them from reality.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, you can check the amount of fingers on their hands.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Intuitively you'll always be able to tell.]]</button>

While this used to be true, it has become increasingly more and more difficult to tell what is AI and what is not. Ultimately, there is no way to know. You must remain skeptical at all times until the issue can be resolved. Always doubt images and videos you are given. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 6]]</button>

Correct! <<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> Ultimately, there is no way to know. You must remain skeptical at all times until the issue can be resolved. Always doubt images and videos you are given. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 6]]</button>

You get an email from your bank telling you, you have overdue loans. What do you do? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Freak out and respond to the text asking what's going on.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click the link the message gave you to see if what it's saying is true.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Remain calm and investigate the actual website, not through the link provided, to see what's wrong.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Call the bank from the official number to clarify.]]</button>

You get a text from your niece's number, asking you a question. How do you respond? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Be wary that it might not be her.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond normally as if that is her.]]</button>

That's all! Thank you for training, $name. I hope you enjoyed your time here and I hope you learned something. <<set $module to 4>> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $scorecounter, age: $age}); >> This message will self destruct in three... two...<<set $gamebegun = 0>> @@.center; <button class="btn info">[[➤ HOME SCREEN]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ ABOUT ME]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ CREDITS]]</button> @@

It's best to remain calm and not respond to the text message. Instead, remain calm and investigate the actual website, not through the link provided, to see what's wrong. If you can't find anything, make sure to contact the website's support, otherwise, feel free to assume it's a scam. If it wasn't a scam, the website would have made sure to alert you about it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 7]]</button>

It's best to remain calm and not respond to the text message. Instead, investigate the actual website, not through the link provided, to see what's wrong. If you can't find anything, make sure to contact the website's support, otherwise, feel free to assume it's a scam. If it wasn't a scam, the website would have made sure to alert you about it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 7]]</button>

Perfect! <<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> If you can't find anything, make sure to contact the website's support, otherwise, feel free to assume it's a scam. If it wasn't a scam, the website would have made sure to alert you about it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 7]]</button>

If it's your niece's number, and you know it's your niece's number, there's probably very little reason to be wary. If she begins to act odd, there is chance her number may have gotten hacked, but it is unlikely. If your niece texts you from an <em>unknown</em> number, then it is time to be wary and skeptical. <button class="btn info">[[➤ The End]]</button>

If it's your niece's number, and you know it's your niece's number, there's probably very little reason to be wary. You picked correctly in saying you should respond normally! If she begins to act odd, there is chance her number may have gotten hacked, but it is unlikely.<<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> If your niece texts you from an <em>unknown</em> number, then it is time to be wary and skeptical. <button class="btn info">[[➤ The End]]</button>

@@.center; <img src="https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/Untitled222_20251228100333.png" class = "logo"><div class="base64image"></div><span class = "authorfont">Are you ready to learn about the dangers the internet can hold? Find out about the possibilities of AI, how to recognize and defend yourself from scams, and how to deny cookies. This game will do its best to prepare you to survive on the internet in the age of technology. <<set $gamebegun = 0>></span> <span class = "titlefont"><button class="btn info">[[➤ PLAY GAME]]</button></span> <span class = "authorfont"><button class="btn info">[[➤ ABOUT ME]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ CREDITS]]</button> </span> @@

Sadly this is not true! Maybe you did amazing on the AI image detection game, but sadly, it is incredibly difficult to determine artificial images from real ones. You must remain skeptical at all times until the issue can be resolved. Always doubting images and videos you are given. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 6]]</button>

Hi! I'm Annabelle, an Ambassador Girl Scout in the Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles and a junior in high school! I hope that this game can be useful in learning how to best navigate the internet and how to avoid all the dangers that it can possess! <<set $gamebegun = 1>> <img src="https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/goldaward.png" width="200" height="200"><img src="https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/girlscoutsla.jpg" width="500" height="200"><div class="base64image"></div> @@.center; ''A special thank you to...'' Candice M Scott M Ms. Ranieri Mr. Yeung Sharon Lei Hager Holly S Jade B Max M Gene R Merle R Geetha S Mira C Olivia S Asher G Nancy M ...for making this possible!! I couldn't have done it without everyone's wonderful love and support. @@

<button class="btn info">[[➤ Module One]]</button> Recognizing and defending yourself from AI. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Two]]</button> Scams in text messages & email. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Module Three]]</button> Cookies and internet safety.

@@.center; <span class = "titlefont">Credits</span> @@ Created by: Annabelle Miller Twine and Sugarcube:<span class = "authorfont"> *<a class = "my-link"><a href="https://twinery.org/cookbook/">Twine, created by: Chris Klimas</a></a> *<a class = "my-link"><a href="https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/">Sugarcube, created by: Thomas Michael Edwards </a></a> *<a class = "my-link"><a href="https://www.w3schools.com/">CSS help from W3 Schools </a></a> </span>Images used in AI game:<span class = "authorfont"> [Image of Eiffel Tower.] -- Gray Line Worldwide [Image of Eiffel Tower burning. AI] -- @Espectáculos Norte on Facebook, generated with AI [Image of woman.] -- Andrea Piacquadio, pexels [Image of woman. AI] -- Tim Henderson, Vidnoz, generated with AI [Image of croissant dragons.] -- Becca Golins, Dragons & Beasties [Image of croissant dinosaur. AI] -- @ethos_atx, Instagram, generated with AI [Image of a painting of a woman.] -- Daniel F Gerhartz [Image of a painting of people standing before a city. AI] -- Jason Allen with Midjourney AI [Image of rabbit.] -- Linnaea Mallette, public [Image of rabbit. AI] -- Roxana on Adobe Stock, generated with AI </span> Font: <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://fonts.google.com/">Google Fonts</a></a> Writing, logo, and game design done by: Annabelle Miller Software used for cookie game: <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://code.org/en-US">Code.org, created by: Hadi and Ali Partovi</a></a> Information about scams gained from the FBI from <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/on-the-internet">here,</a><a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams">here</a> </a>and <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security/online-privacy-and-security">here.</a></a> And from the AARP <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/biggest-scams-to-watch-for-2026/">here.</a> </a> Information about detecting Artificial Intelligence gained from the AARP <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://www.aarp.org/personal-technology/why-ai-slop-is-dangerous/">here.</a></a> ---- @@.center; <span class = "tinyfont"><<button "➤ HOME SCREEN" '➤ HOME SCREEN'>> <</button>><<button "➤ ABOUT ME" '➤ ABOUT ME'>><</button>></span> @@

<<set $age = "0-20">><<type 20ms>>\Hello $name. Listen carefully. Scammers are a highly dangerous group. They are trying to steal your data, money, and information. To fight them, you must learn and train to recognize their tactics. This is your mission. If you choose to accept it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ I accept.]]</button> \<</type>>

<<set $age = "20-40">><<type 20ms>>\Hello $name. Listen carefully. Scammers are a highly dangerous group. They are trying to steal your data, money, and information. To fight them, you must learn and train to recognize their tactics. This is your mission. If you choose to accept it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ I accept.]]</button> \<</type>>

<<set $age = "40-60">><<type 20ms>>\Hello $name. Listen carefully. Scammers are a highly dangerous group. They are trying to steal your data, money, and information. To fight them, you must learn and train to recognize their tactics. This is your mission. If you choose to accept it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ I accept.]]</button> \<</type>>

Make sure you know how to navigate these wisely <img src="https://indulge.digital/sites/default/files/sites/all/default/files/default/vodafone-uk-cookie-pop-up.png" width="512" height="256"> <div class="base64image"></div> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Onto the game!]]</button>

<<set $scamscore = 0>> <img src="https://ik.imagekit.io/r4rsqt4le/IMG_3251.jpg?updatedAt=1760125007893" width="768" height="1536"> <div class="base64image"></div> Okay, do you believe this to be a scam? <<set $numbertime = 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because it doesn't have a contact, it's just a phone number.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because the way it's written is clunky and feels very sketchy.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Yes, because companies don't contact through text message unless you give them your phone number... and even then it's usually unlikely.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, because it says it's from ARCO.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ No, because it doesn't appear to be a scam.]]</button>

<<set $age = "60+">><<type 20ms>>\Hello $name. Listen carefully. Scammers are a highly dangerous group. They are trying to steal your data, money, and information. To fight them, you must learn and train to recognize their tactics. This is your mission. If you choose to accept it. <button class="btn info">[[➤ I accept.]]</button> \<</type>>

<<set $scorecounter = 0>><<set $gamebegun = 0>><<set $games = 0>><<set $onecomplete = false>><<set $twocomplete = false>><<set $threecomplete = false>><<set $module = 0>><<set $AIwritingscore = 0>><<set $AIimagesscore = 0>><<set $age = "">><<set $scamscore = 0>><<set $name ="">>

The thing about AI images is that they can be very difficult to tell apart from photos. Because of this, you must remain skeptical of all photos you see online. Especially implausible photos or photos without credible sources. The first step to recognizing the difference between AI-created images and actual photos is to understand that <strong>you might not be able to tell the difference at all.</strong> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Let's try an exercise to demonstrate.]]</button>

Company scams are usually someone impersonating a company or a government agency and contacting you posing as them. If something... * tells you you're in legal trouble for something that doesn't make sense * asks you to renew a subscription for something you don't have * makes bold claims about your bank account/other important things Then, most likely, it's a scam. <button class="btn info">[[➤ "But I'm really certain it isn't a scam!"]]</button>

I'm sure you've seen pop ups like this one before: <img src="https://indulge.digital/sites/default/files/sites/all/default/files/default/vodafone-uk-cookie-pop-up.png" width="512" height="256"> <div class="base64image"></div> Cookies are a tracking device used in websites to track where you go, what you do, and who you are. They will collect as much personal information on you as they can. Remember, there will almost always be a way for you to reject cookies. Experiment with what you can click! If you can turn off a cookie button, you should try to. However, you will be unable to turn off essential cookies. Usually, they are harmless and will not take any personal information. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Onto the game!]]</button>

I'm afraid not! The correct answer is: Rest, Rethink, Research <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 5]]</button>

Correct!<<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 5]]</button>

I'm afraid not! The correct answer is: Rest, Rethink, Research <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 5]]</button>

<center><b>Click which image you think is AI!</b></center> <<nobr>><center> @@.aigame-image;[img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/towerai.jpg][Picture 1][$done to true]] [img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/towerreal.webp][Picture 1][$done to false]]@@</center><</nobr>>

<center><b>Click which image you think is AI!</b></center> <<nobr>><center> @@.aigame-image;[img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/womenai.avif][Picture 2][$done to true]] [img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/womenreal.jpeg][Picture 2][$done to false]]@@</center><</nobr>>

<center><b>Click which image you think is AI!</b></center> <<nobr>><center> @@.aigame-image;[img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/dinoreal.webp][Picture 3][$done to false]] [img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/dinoai.webp][Picture 3][$done to true]]@@</center><</nobr>>

<center><b>Click which image you think is AI!</b></center> <<nobr>><center> @@.aigame-image;[img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/paintingreal.jpg][Picture 4][$done to false]] [img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/paintingai.jpg][Picture 4][$done to true]]@@</center><</nobr>>

<center><b>Click which image you think is AI!</b></center> <<nobr>><center> @@.aigame-image;[img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/rabbitai.jpg][Picture 5][$done to true]] [img[https://file.garden/aVFs5fQn93xoMtCO/aitestgame/bunnyreal.jpg][Picture 5][$done to false]]@@</center><</nobr>>

How was that? I hope this demonstrated how deceptive AI art can be. Remember to always be wary when seeing images that depict things that might not actually be true. Don't let the AI images fool you until you double check with trusted news sources! <<set $module to 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Continue onward]]</button> <<set setup.sendDataToPHP ({ module: $module, score: $AIimagesscore, age: $age}); >> <em>If you want to learn more about detecting AI, this article from the AARP will have important info so make sure to <a class = "my-link"><a href="https://www.aarp.org/personal-technology/why-ai-slop-is-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">check it out!</a></a> They give helpful hints about looking for strange images, noticing unreliable sources, and making sure to not be swayed by your emotions. AI images will often be intentionally provocative.</em>

<<if $done is true>> Correct! That was AI!<<set $AIimagesscore = $AIimagesscore + 1>> <<else>> That was real, actually! <</if>> Although it may have looked convincing, the Eiffel Tower would never be on fire. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Next Picture]]</button>

<<if $done is true>> Correct! That was AI!<<set $AIimagesscore = $AIimagesscore + 1>> <<else>> That was real, actually! <</if>> Although the girl looked like she had blemishes, AI can recreate imperfections as well. <button class="btn info">[[➤Next picture]]</button>

<<if $done is true>> Correct! That was AI!<<set $AIimagesscore = $AIimagesscore + 1>> <<else>> That was real, actually! <</if>> You can see how if you saw the AI image on social media, you might mistake it for reality. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Next picture.]]</button>

<<if $done is true>> Correct! That was AI! <<set $AIimagesscore = $AIimagesscore + 1>> The AI work was submitted to an art contest and won, until the judges realized it was AI. Which really shows how deceptive it can be! <<else>> That was real, actually! The AI work was submitted to an art contest and won, until the judges realized it was AI. So, don't feel too bad. Even professional art judges couldn't figure it out! <</if>> <button class="btn info">[[➤Next picture!]]</button>

<<if $done is true>> Correct! That was AI! <<set $AIimagesscore = $AIimagesscore + 1>> <<else>> That was real, actually! <</if>> AI has gotten incredibly good at replicating normal artwork, it can be difficult to tell. <button class="btn info">[[➤ And the game is over!]]</button>

Just because it claims it's from ARCO doesn't mean it is! It's better to be skeptical about things like this. Anyone can claim to be anything. So it simply saying it's from ARCO rewards isn't enough. And did you even sign up for ARCO? However, no matter <em>how</em> possible that it isn't a scam, you still need to be careful, just in case! What could you do to be sure? <button class="btn info">[[➤ Click on the link provided by the text message to check.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Go onto the official website to make sure this is false.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Contact the company through official channels not provided in the text to clarify.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Respond to the text with questions.]]</button>

Not true! They're actually incredibly important and contain key information about you. It's best to decline them, to make sure they can't steal your information from you. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 2]]</button>

That's correct! If you WANT a website to remember something about you, it's best not to click decline cookies. Otherwise, if you want to keep your privacy, decline the cookies! <<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 3]]</button>

<<set $score = 0>> <img src="https://indulge.digital/sites/default/files/sites/all/default/files/default/vodafone-uk-cookie-pop-up.png" width="512" height="256"> <div class="base64image"></div> What are cookies? <button class="btn info">[[➤ I know what cookies are: a dessert treat!]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ I'll be honest, I have no idea what cookies are.]]</button> <button class="btn info">[[➤ I know what cookies are in terms of internet safety. Let's skip the explanation!]]</button>

Perfect! <<set $scorecounter = $scorecounter + 1>> Hopefully the bank will be able to explain whether it's a scam or not. Just make sure you're calling them through an official number and not a number provided by the email. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Question 7]]</button>

Rest. Research. Rethink. Stop what you're doing. Double check if it's true. Think about how possible/likely it could be. And make sure to remain level headed. If you're unsure, it's always good to ask someone else and get a second pair of eyes to help you out. <button class="btn info">[[➤ Urgency is a scammer's best friend]]</button>