Bot: Also called a “chatbot” or “virtual assistant,” this is a piece of software that operates online or on a network to automatically answer questions, follow commands (like giving directions to your new friend’s house), or do simple tasks (like play a song).

Phishing: An attempt to scam you or trick you into sharing login information or other personal information online. Phishing is usually done through email, ads, or sites that look similar to ones you’re already used to.

Spearphishing: A phishing scam where an attacker targets you more precisely by using pieces of your own personal information

Scam: A dishonest attempt to make money or gain something else of value by tricking people

Trustworthy: Able to be relied on to do what is right or what is needed

Authentic: Real, genuine, true, or accurate; not fake or copied

Verifiable: Something that can be proven or shown to be true or correct

Deceptive: False; an action or message designed to fool, trick, or mislead someone

Manipulation: Someone controlling or influencing another person or situation unfairly, dishonestly, or under threat. Alternatively, things you find online may be manipulated, such as a photo that has been edited to make you believe something that isn’t true.

Fraudulent: Tricking someone in order to get something valuable from them

Firewall: A program that shields your computer from most scams and tricks

Malicious: Words or actions intended to be cruel or hurtful. Can also refer to harmful software intended to do damage to a person’s device, account, or personal information.

Catfishing: Creating a fake identity or account on a social networking service to trick people into sharing their personal information or into believing they’re talking to a real person behind a legitimate account, profile, or page

Clickbait: Manipulative online content, posts, or ads designed to capture people’s attention and get them to click on a link or webpage, often to grow views or site traffic in order to make money