Digital media is becoming increasingly important. So it's no wonder that even the youngest children come into contact with them in schools. Ultimately, computing will play an important role in the workplaces of the future. But since the Corona pandemic, the use of computers, laptops, etc. has continued to increase. The reason is homeschooling, which is intended to replace traditional teaching due to the curfews and closed schools. However, due to inadequate cybersecurity education, this situation poses many dangers. Here are 5 tips to make online courses safer.
#1: Change passwords regularly
We now need passwords for our operating system, email account, online course offerings , WiFi router and many other places. The same login details are often used for all logins mentioned. This can have fatal consequences. If an account has been hacked, the uninvited guest can easily gain access to all other platforms. All passwords must therefore be changed regularly.
Extra tip: A strong password can be created in a password generator and, so you don't forget it, saved in a password manager. Easy-to-crack passwords, such as your pet's name or your own date of birth, are not secure.
#2: Using a VPN
The abbreviation VPN stands for “Virtual Private Network”. This is a program that must be installed on the computer. It then allows a device to connect to a VPN server to secure and anonymize data traffic. Third parties can then no longer access sensitive information and data. In principle, a VPN is always recommended when using public networks in cafés, restaurants or train stations. However, such a tool also increases cybersecurity for homeschooling in a private network.
#3: Delete unnecessary applications and files
Over time, dozens of files, documents, images and applications accumulate on the hard drive. Most of these come from email attachments, app stores or other providers and websites. However, for good cybersecurity, only the most necessary files should be stored on the computer. Documents are often attached to emails in particular, which when opened can release a virus or even completely block the PC. In this way, important data can be lost and the device can even be destroyed. Regular cleaning out is therefore important.
#4: Using an anti-virus program
All dangers can probably never be eliminated. On the one hand, the techniques and methods that criminals use to access third-party devices and accounts are becoming increasingly sophisticated. On the other hand, around 90% of all cyber attacks are carried out via private email inboxes . All it takes is a wrong attachment to be downloaded and opened and the lights go out. Therefore, the operating system should also be equipped with an anti-virus system. This automatically detects viruses and other dangers in documents. For this purpose, every new document and every new file that comes onto the computer is scanned. Only when no dangers have been found can it be opened. Otherwise, the file will be placed under “quarantine” and deleted.
#5: More education and awareness of the topic
The most important step to greater cybersecurity is knowledge. Ultimately, data security and technical understanding only make up part of the equation. The human component must also be taken into account. Above all, parents but also teachers must make their children aware of the topic and train them in it. Good advice is important. This is by no means a one-time conversation, but rather a never-ending process. So we all need to learn and talk more about IT and cybersecurity .
