Digital literacy crossword vocabulary pack

Teacher key

1. PASSWORD · 8 letters · noun · introductory
   Private string used to prove that an account belongs to you

   Hint: Think of a secret sign-in detail you should never share.
   Why it fits: A password is the private string paired with an account name to demonstrate that the person signing in is authorized to use that account.

2. ENCRYPTION · 10 letters · noun · advanced
   Process that turns readable data into protected coded form

   Hint: It keeps a message unreadable to people without the right key.
   Why it fits: Encryption changes readable data into coded data so that only someone with the authorized key or method can restore and read the original information.

3. BROWSER · 7 letters · noun · introductory
   App that retrieves and displays pages from the web

   Hint: You use one to open sites, tabs, and online articles.
   Why it fits: A browser is the application that contacts web servers and renders their pages, allowing a person to read sites and move among online resources.

4. DATABASE · 8 letters · noun · intermediate
   Organized collection designed for storing and finding records

   Hint: Think of a structured digital system for searchable information.
   Why it fits: A database stores related records in an organized structure, making it practical to search for, update, and manage specific pieces of information.

5. HYPERLINK · 9 letters · noun · intermediate
   Clickable text or image that opens another online location

   Hint: Selecting it can take you to a different page or section.
   Why it fits: A hyperlink is the selectable text or image that connects digital content to another destination, such as a page, file, or heading in a document.

6. SOFTWARE · 8 letters · noun · introductory
   Programs and instructions that tell a device what to do

   Hint: Unlike a keyboard or screen, this part of computing is not physical.
   Why it fits: Software consists of programs and instructions that guide a digital device's actions, which is why the clue emphasizes telling a device what to do.

7. HARDWARE · 8 letters · noun · introductory
   Physical parts of a computer that you can touch

   Hint: Think of tangible device pieces such as a monitor or mouse.
   Why it fits: Hardware means the tangible parts of a computer system, so a monitor, mouse, processor, and cables fit the clue's focus on touchable components.

8. PHISHING · 8 letters · noun · advanced
   Deceptive message that tries to steal personal account information

   Hint: Treat unexpected requests for sign-in details with caution.
   Why it fits: Phishing is a scam that uses deceptive messages to obtain sensitive information; the clue highlights the warning sign so students can avoid responding or clicking.

9. MALWARE · 7 letters · noun · advanced
   Harmful program that can disrupt a device or expose data

   Hint: Avoid unknown downloads and ask a trusted adult for help if concerned.
   Why it fits: Malware is software made to harm systems or compromise data. The clue names its possible effects to reinforce safe habits such as avoiding unknown downloads.

10. FIREWALL · 8 letters · noun · advanced
    Security barrier that filters network traffic using set rules

    Hint: It helps a network allow trusted connections and block unwanted ones.
    Why it fits: A firewall applies rules to network traffic, allowing permitted connections and blocking unwanted ones; this safety role is exactly the barrier described in the clue.

Accept a different answer only when it matches the clue, length, grammar, and any supplied crossings. Use the reviewed answer when teaching the intended vocabulary target.