Using Technology Responsibly Best Practices for Safe and Savvy Technology Use

Where Can I Find All This Information?

• Social networking sites Facebook, Twitter, Google+
• Blogs Blogger, Tumblr
• Personal websites
• Photo/video sites YouTube, Instagram
• Dating sites eHarmony, Match.com
• Online video games Xbox Live, Steam
• Message boards Any website with this feature
• Wish lists/registries Amazon, Target, eBay
• File-sharing sites BitTorrent
• Entertainment sites/services Hulu, Netflix, Goodreads
• Employment-related sites Monster, CareerBuilder
• Business sites Craigslist, Etsy, Roommates
• Other Can you think of additional online resources where you may inadvertently be sharing more than you realize?

Potential Consequences of Irresponsible Technology Use

• Disciplinary action from colleges/universities
• Losing a scholarship or athletic eligibility
• Stalking
• Use of posted information as incriminating evidence in legal matters
• Identity theft
• Being passed over for a new job or internship
• Disciplinary action from an employer, including getting fired

How can you deal with the risks inherent in using technology?

You can’t ignore the risks, but you also can’t avoid technology entirely.

The solution is to become “web wise” and technologically-savvy.

From “Street Smart” to “Web Wise”

• “Street smart” people…
• Possess strong common sense
• Have good instincts
• Develop strong critical thinking skills
• Are aware of their environment, including the risks it may pose
• Use their skills to make good decisions and minimize risks
• “Web wise” is the internet version of “street smart”

Becoming “Web Wise” and Tech-Savvy

• Understand that being tech-savvy is about more than knowing how to use technology
• Learn about technology-related risks
• Take steps to avoid or minimize risks
• Take responsibility for your role as a member of the online community by being a good cyber-citizen
• Apply critical thinking skills and good judgment to all your technology-related actions