Using Technology Responsibly Best Practices for Safe and Savvy Technology Use

Using Technology Responsibly

Best Practices for Safe and Savvy Technology Use

Why Become Tech-Savvy?

• College students rely heavily on technology for both academic and non-academic purposes Laptops Netbooks MP3 Players Smart Phones Tablets E-Readers Assistive Technology Devices
• Near-constant access to technology
• Need to accomplish many tasks online
• Skills are more than just how to use it; need to be truly savvy about technology

Why do you use technology?

gaming
Homework
Shopping
Social Media
listening to music
Staying organized
email
Research
Blogging

A Double-Edged Sword

• Technology is so well-integrated into daily life that we may not realize its extent
• Pros: convenience and efficiency Cons: dependence and vulnerability
• Technology’s benefits usually outweigh its risks
• However, serious problems can arise if you’re not safe and savvy when using technology

Types of Technology-Related Risks

• Security Issues
• Safety Issues
• Privacy Issues
• Data Integrity Issues

If You Post It, They Will Find It

• Anyone can find a lot of information about you online.
• All it takes to find many details about you is…
• The motivation and persistence to look for them
• A small amount of prior knowledge about you
• If you are careless about online safety and security, they may also be able to access more sensitive or private information about you

What Can I Find Out About YOU?

• Where you go to school
• What kind of car you drive
• What you did last Saturday night
• Your favorite songs
• Where you work
• What you want for your birthday
• Where you live
• The brand of pizza you prefer
• The people you admire
• Where & when you’re going on vacation
• What you’re looking for in a significant other
• Who your friends are
• Where to find you on Tuesday evenings
• Illegal activities you’ve participated in
• Who your roommates are and whether you get along
• Your opinion of your teachers
• Your political views
• Your sense of humor
• Where you are and what you’re doing right now
• What you think of your boss
• Items you own and items you want to purchase
• Your favorite sports teams
• Your sexual orientation
• Who your family members are
• Your favorite movies
• Your birthday and age
• What causes/issues you support
• Where you shop
• How you’re doing in school
• Which websites, books, and magazines you read
• What you look like
• And much more…