Digital literacy covers the proficiencies needed to carry out fundamental digital tasks, such as using a computer keyboard or smartphone touchscreen, managing privacy settings, sending emails, searching the web or filling out an online form. These skills allow users to communicate with others and access online commerce and public and financial services.xv Digital literacy also encompasses important security skills, such as protecting privacy, minimising the digital trail left on social media and elsewhere and distinguishing between fact and misinformation.
Without digital literacy, many people are unable to use digital technologies. This predominantly impacts women, people with no or little level of education, the elderly and low-income groups. The lack of digital literacy among vulnerable and marginalised groups is a missed opportunity for digital companies. It is in companies’ interest to support programmes that build the digital skills of these potential customers.


Research Guidance:

The company discloses the goal or intended impact of its programme that contributes to digital literacy, demonstrating a clear understanding of the issue being addressed and how its activities contribute to a meaningful solution for the impact individuals/communities. To meet the requirements of this element, the company must disclose one or more of the following:
- The company states the specific objective(s) of its programme. Objectives should be specific and clearly aligned with the programme‚s activities and the needs of vulnerable groups;
- The company discloses the anticipated results of the programme, which gives an indication of how success will be measured qualitatively or quantitatively over time;
- The company sets concrete targets** **for the programme, either for the short- or long-term.
General statements of support or purpose without specific objectives, outcomes, or targets will not meet the requirements of this element.