Surfing Safely
We're all being encouraged to make use of the Internet... visit the blog, teach an online or hybrid class, add a web component to your regular class, bank online, shop online, etc. Yet we're also aware that the web has many hazards including viruses, spy-ware that tracks our online movements and may collect personal data, and hackers who may attempt to gain control of our computer. If you have ever been a victim of any of these problems, you know how troublesome they can be. Fortunately, there are a few relatively easy precautions you can take to significantly protect your computer(s) and yourself from these risks.
In the coming week the Blog will feature some suggestions for improving the security of your computer. While our office computers generally have some safeguards provided by our college networks, they can still be at risk. The majority of problems generally occur with home computers, particularly if they are used by multiple family members. As our use of the computer and Internet has increased many educators are doing a significant amount of their professional computing at home.
While we will offer you a number of suggestions, please try not to feel overwhelmed by the choices. Even if you can add one additional level of security to your computer, that may represent a significant upgrade in your protection. If anyone has additional ideas or recommendations based on their experience in this area feel free to comment.