Digital+Security

Digital security is the precaution that every user must take to guarantee their personal safety and the safety of their network.

Students need to be aware that they should not be randomly clicking on pop-up ads or opening everything that comes through their e-mail. More and more, students are becoming aware of the usefulness of anti-virus software and are understanding the threat that exists on the internet and with the use of technology. The computer is just like a house, there are burglars out there and they will find a way to break in. By protecting ourselves with antivirus software and firewalls, we are protecting our personal belongings.

We need to make students aware of the seriousness of digital security. If you ask a student how many people know their password to their personal computer and logins, the answer should be only themselves and possibly their parents. There are so many ways to connect to the outside world that children and adults need to be aware of the threat these people may pose. Many think that meeting someone on the internet is a cool way to make friends. They do not see the potential danger that this person can pose. We need to take the time to protect our own identity on the internet. Parents and teachers should talk to the children about what could happen and how to avoid harmful situations.

As teachers at Avon Grove, we should make our students aware of the dangers that exist on the internet. We can hold seminars for both parents and students on how to stay safe in cyberspace and how to protect our identities on the computer.

Monica - I agree it is very important to teach our students how to protect themselves on the Internet. Too many students put their trust in strangers. It is also important to educate the parents on this issue. Cyber bullying and chatting on line is very new to most parents. They are not aware of this new technology and we should help to educate them. I think it would be a good idea if we sent home an information packet for parents. Marlese

Monica & Marlese--I think the issue goes beyond students. Many parents are unaware of the issues related to safety and security. I know of many adults who don't really understand what their children are doing when they sign on. In fact, I bet many parents aren't even monitoring their children. I know Internet precautions and use sessions have been offered in our district, but maybe we should offer it again...perhaps on an ongoing basis. Maybe a combination parent/child seminar would make it more meaningful. Kathy