Online Safety & Security

Internet is unlimited in terms of helpful information and great programs, however at the same time caution must be applied In order to avoid identity theft or losing private information.

I believe that technology and internet became an important part in our lives these days. So in order to enjoy all the benefits that technology and Internet provide, and prevent and detect possible violations, students have to be taught how to use it safely. I think every school should provide an online safety & security course for teachers and students as well.

In my previous EDT 610 class I had the chance to learn about online safety & security and I had a great opportunity with i-safe organization, which works in support of Internet safety, to watch a verity of videos and get a certificate. i-Safe tutorials was a great opportunity for me; I learned a lot by watching the videos. I highly recommend a visit to this site http://www.isafe.org/ it seems to be a good starting point for educators, parents, students, and community members alike

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs listed safety tips as one use social networks, e-mail, and the Internet,

“1. Never broadcast private contact information. Never list your e-mail address or phone number in any public space, such as your profile page, a blog, forums, or photo caption.

2. If you are a member of a social network, pay close attention to your privacy settings, which allow you to choose how much personal information you reveal and to whom.

3. Carefully consider what you publish on social networks. Before you post photos, videos, or text, ask yourself if it would embarrass you if your family or employer saw them.

4. Before you add a widget (an application that can be shared with others electronically) to your profile, think about whether you want the creators of the widget to be able to access your profile page and information about your activity on the social network. Keep in mind that the social network generally has no control over these widgets, so exercise discretion when using these tools.

5. Report any abuses of a website’s Terms of Use to the website’s administrators. Any reputable website or social network will have a way for you to report abuses.

6. E-mail can be used to spread malicious software or obtain your personal information in order to commit fraud.” http://exchanges.state.gov/pro-admin/pdfs/safety_english.pdf

I can hardly believe this semester is almost over!