Simple Tips for Students (and parents, too!)
"The most hostile environment you can roll computers into." This was in the opening paragraph of an article I read last week on today's computer environment in schools around the country.
Many students that use school-supplied notebooks and related systems will see firsthand the array of security already installed on these machines: asset-tracking software, Infrared tags, embedded filters filtering unfiltered information and other content.
Even the government has put forth money to secure the safe distribution of these 21st-century learning tools by budgeting state-sponsored funding.
But what we fail to see is that the software and hardware fortress a student calls his homework storage, or the multi-media Rolls-Royce system he just purchased for a course, will always be limited from the perspective of the user if the operator hasn't a clue on how to stay safe.
These may apply to parents, too, so here are some pointers.
GetNetWise suggests these basic tips to start: Use Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware software, and keep it up-to-date. "You protect yourself and others you communicate with." McAfee.com maintains there are over 500 viruses discovered each month.
Always use a Firewall.
Learn how to properly share files, by email, networking, etc., and how to minimize exposure.
Recognize when you are using an SSL (Secure Socket Layer) connection in Web browsers. Almost every bank's web site uses this today. Make sure you are on it, and not a "fake" web site designed to steal or "phish" your personal information.
Use unique passwords.
More tips and useful information:
All of these links, and more, can be found on the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) web site.
Choosing and Protecting Passwords
Understanding Anti-Virus Software
