What your child will learn
Identify types of malware: viruses, ransomware, spyware, and trojans
Recognize warning signs of infected devices and suspicious downloads
Understand how to avoid and respond to malware infections
How this mission works
Students learn to identify different types of malware, recognize suspicious download patterns, and understand how ransomware attacks work through 5 intermediate quiz questions. Includes real-world ransomware case examples.
What students actually encounter
A "free game" asks for admin access — red flag or normal?
Your computer suddenly gets slow and shows pop-ups — what could it be?
Cipher is with them the whole way
When a student gets stuck on Malware Maze, Cipher appears with a mission-specific nudge — no spoilers, just a hint toward the right thinking. Make a wrong choice, and Cipher explains the real-world consequence. Finish the mission, and Cipher generates a personalized performance debrief based on exactly how the student played it.
ISTE alignment
Students manage their digital identity and practice safe behaviors to protect their devices and data from malicious software.