DC - Safe Practices in an Online Environment {LESSON}

Safe Practices in an Online Environment

Digital technology has impacted how you learn, live and interact with others. There are expectations of all citizens in a society to behave in certain ways. Digital citizenship is the practice of those expectations. Digital citizenship by definition is the appropriate and responsible use of the internet, computers, and digital devices. With being a digital citizen, you must understand how to protect yourself online. Also, recognize that everything you share is permanent and close to impossible to delete. In this lesson, you will develop an understanding of how you can protect your digital identity, specifically your personal information.

Private and Personal Information 

Take a quick look at the Private and Personal Information video.

Common Sense Media, CC–BY–NC-ND 4.0

Think about how often you shop online using personal information such as your parent's debit or credit card. The many websites you may visit and what exactly is obtained when you browse.  Ensuring sites are legit and protecting the financial and personal information when purchasing online are essential to safeguard yourself.

Don’t forget about the cookies! Cookies are the data files saved as your digital memory when you visit websites.

Now think about security (precautions people use to maintain their safety and the safety of others while using networked devices). How can you practice online safety appropriately?

Google for Education Video

Watch the Google for Education video to get a quick explanation of how you (students) can be secure while using digital technology using your personal information.

Takeaway

It is important to understand that your personal information is a prized possession which you protect as such. What you put online, will forever be there and can not be deleted. It is best to practice digital citizenship to ensure you are secure online. Security is more than just a technical issue. Online safety requires safe practices such as creating passwords that are strong and you do not share with anyone.

Here is a quick cheat sheet to keep your identity and information safe and secure. Keep the tips in mind when you are creating passwords for your personal information Insert Tips for Teens: Password Safety.

Let’s recap the information learned in this lesson about safe practices in an online environment with a quick self-assessment.

Digital Citizenship Quick Self-Assessment

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