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Digital Basics Guide

This page outlines the essential digital skills students need for their studies and outside curriculum.

Digital Transactions and Online Services

In today’s world, many everyday tasks like shopping, banking, and paying bills can be done online. These actions are called digital transactions.

A digital transaction is any kind of deal, exchange, or payment that takes place using a digital device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. You don’t need to leave your house you just need internet access and a bit of know-how. There’s a number of places that you can buy items on like Amazon.com but also retailers that sells clothing, food, general good and a whole lot more which you can do all from home in a click of a few buttons. 

To shop online it’s as simple as creating an account, adding an item to a basket and then confirming your purchase with your payment details. 

Staying safe when transacting

When you shop or pay for services online, you’ll need to use a digital payment method. These are secure tools that help you pay without using cash. The most common methods include:

💳 1. Credit or Debit Cards

  • Enter your card number, expiration date, and the 3-digit code on the back (CVV).
  • Your bank will usually send you a one-time code to confirm the payment.
  • These are widely accepted and easy to use but be sure you’re on a trusted website.

🅿️ 2. PayPal

  • A digital wallet that lets you pay without entering your card details every time.
  • You create one account, link your bank or card, and log in to pay.
  • It adds an extra layer of protection between you and the seller.

📱 3. Mobile Payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.)

  • These use your phone to pay — online or in shops.
  • Your card details are stored securely on your phone, often protected with a fingerprint or face ID.
  • Very convenient and fast.

When you shop or pay for services online, you’ll need to use a digital payment method. These are secure tools that help you pay without using cash. The most common methods include:

💳 1. Credit or Debit Cards

  • Enter your card number, expiration date, and the 3-digit code on the back (CVV).
  • Your bank will usually send you a one-time code to confirm the payment.
  • These are widely accepted and easy to use, but be sure you’re on a trusted website.

🅿️ 2. PayPal

  • A digital wallet that lets you pay without entering your card details every time.
  • You create one account, link your bank or card, and log in to pay.
  • It adds an extra layer of protection between you and the seller.

📱 3. Mobile Payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.)

  • These use your phone to pay — online or in shops.
  • Your card details are stored securely on your phone, often protected with a fingerprint or face ID.
  • Very convenient and fast.

Tips to Stay Safe When Paying Online

Look for a secure connection

  • Only enter your payment info on websites that begin with https:// and show a 🔒 padlock symbol.
  • If it looks suspicious or badly designed, don’t trust it.

Never share your card details in messages

  • Don’t send your card info by email, text, or messaging apps — it’s not safe.

Check your statements

  • Keep an eye on your bank or PayPal account regularly.
  • If something looks wrong, report it right away.

When in doubt, don’t pay

  • Ask a trusted friend or family member for help.

Mobile Wallets and Bank Apps

Accessing bank accounts on a mobile device is a common and is highly recommended by banks to use, we would recommend that you go in a visit your branch to discuss with a supervisor if you would like to know more. 

A mobile wallet is an app on your smartphone that safely stores your payment cards, so you can pay without pulling out your physical card or cash.

📲 Popular Mobile Wallets:

  • Apple Pay (iPhones)
  • Google Pay (Android phones)
  • Samsung Pay

You simply tap your phone on a card reader or select your mobile wallet when shopping online. Most phones use fingerprint, face ID, or a passcode to confirm payments — making it both fast and secure.