Digital literacy is the set of skills needed to use digital devices and online services effectively, critically and safely. It covers operating devices and software, searching for and evaluating information, communicating online, creating content, and protecting privacy and security.
Why it matters
Services such as banking, government forms, health bookings and work tools increasingly assume digital skills. Gaps cause exclusion and increase exposure to scams and misinformation. Literacy is more than technical operation: it includes judging whether a source is reliable and recognizing risks such as phishing. It is related to, but distinct from, access to technology, which is the digital divide.
Example
A short checklist of everyday skills:
- Use a password manager and turn on two-factor authentication.
- Check the sender and link before clicking an email.
- Verify a surprising claim with a second reliable source.
- Adjust sharing settings on a social media account.
Common misconceptions
- Young people are automatically digitally literate. Comfort with apps is not the same as critical skills.
- It means knowing how to code. Coding is one specialized skill.
- It is learned once; tools and threats keep changing.
Related
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This page is general information written by our editorial team and updated when documentation changes. Servers and providers differ, so test changes safely first. See our editorial policy and disclaimer.