Privacy and Security
OCKTO:
The online world is full of information, questions and answers, and has become apart
of out social lives. Because of all the ongoing activity the online world has to offer,
there are some dangers and risks when becoming part of the digital world.
Whether you have an online account or not, pictures and information of you are
automatically shared on the Internet. Either you or someone you know has uploaded
information about you.
Being aware of what you put online is essential. If you are not careful of what you put
online, there is a chance that problems can arise, such as identity theft.
Also knowing how you put information online is important, as people often forget
how to use privacy settings wisely. Remember, social media accounts have privacy
settings on which you can fix under your standards.
Whether you are a student, a teacher, a parent, or a worker—anyone can be affected
by online threats due to using the online world irresponsibly.
This can potentially hurt your education, career and status on both the online world
and real world.
Students in high school are affected the most, as they have been growing in the digital
age. There has been no other generation so technology immersed, and therefore, high
school students should understand how to be responsible online.
AMANDA:
Here are four ways to keep yourself safe online:
First of all, do not post confidential information
In every social media website, it is important not to expose yourself too much. Putting
your phone number, bank information and address, for example, can higher your
chances in having identity theft. Even photos can be a way to steal your identity, so
keeping your photos private or sharing them to people you trust is acceptable. Other
confidential information that should not be shared online is student information, such
as your university login or bank loan information. High school students should be
prepared for college and university, as they are entering a whole new online world, on
which laptops are often used, along with an online learning system.
Second, Do not be specific with location check-Ins
Protecting where you are is also protecting where you online identity is. When you go
out to places and need wifi, they often ask you to check in. If possible, skip this step,
or go somewhere else where you don’t need to check in. When you check into a
location, this can lead to letting social media platforms know—which can lead to
other people knowing. This is another way on which online identity can be stolen, so
be careful.
Social media analyst Brad Hines advice, “It is usually wise to do little sharing of
where you are if you are by yourself, or have left your home by itself.”
Third, Never Rely on Privacy Settings 100% and Use strong passwords
Although privacy settings are great, and are often improving, do not feel vulnerable
and trust them 100%. Sometimes these privacy settings can be complicated and
information may be misinterpreted.
Social media analyst of SnapApp Andrew Moravick advice, “Student should never
rely on privacy settings over good judgment.” “If you don’t want something to be seen,
don’t post it on the Internet.”
Having a strong password is important. When creating social media accounts, there is
a meter to show how strong your password is. The stronger the password, the higher
the meter will get.
One of the ways hackers get into your account is just by guessing the password.
Therefore, having a strong password is essential.
Lastly, avoid online viruses
Viruses are extremely dangerous and can harm your computer. This can also harm
your online identity. The reason viruses happen could also be due to hackers trying to
steal your accounts. Updating your hardware devices can clean out your viruses, or
buying anti-virus software can also help keep your devices healthy.
Students in high school often disregard this last step, however, this is one of the most
important ways to keep yourself safe online.
Social media can be safe and fun if you remind yourself these rules. The online world
can be an extraordinary place, however, safely comes first regardless.
