Winnebago Council > News > Announcing the New Cyber Chip

Announcing the New Cyber Chip

Announcing the New Cyber Chip

Today’s youth are spending more time than ever using digital media for education, research, socializing, and fun. To help families and volunteers keep youth safe while online, the Boy Scouts of America introduces the Cyber Chip. In developing this exciting new tool, the BSA teamed up with content expert NetSmartz, part of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and training expert for many law enforcement agencies.

The Cyber Chip can be earned by any youth in the BSA’s programs. Material is tailored at each level for age-appropriateness:

  • Cub Scouts- Grades 1-3 and 4-5
  • Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, Venturers, and Sea Scouts- Grades 6-8 and 9-12

Topics include cyberbullying, cell phone use, texting, blogging, gaming, and identity theft.

To Unit Leaders:
Cyber Chip resources are available at www.scouting.org/cyberchip. The Cyber Chip can be used as a tool to show skill and commitment to do what’s right in the cyber world. Many unit leaders will be requiring the Cyber Chip before allowing any electronic use on outings- this is a decision each unit can make on its own, much like the Totin’ Chip is used today.