Internet Security

Protecting your computer from the Internet is very important. If you do not take proper measures, your computer could be infected with a virus and/or hacked. There are a variety of websites with security information. One example is www.staysafeonline.org.  Stay informed on how to protect your computer and your family. Also visit www.att.com/smartcontrols for tools and resources about on-line safety.

Step 1: What is a Virus and How Can You Protect Your Computer?
A virus is a program that can be installed when you download a corrupt or fake file. Once the corrupt file is on your computer, it copies itself and spreads to other computers through actions such as sending an e-mail. Protecting your computer is simple by downloading anti-virus software. There are many services on the market, on example is  http://free.avg.com

Step 2: Loss of Data
If your computer gets infected or hacked, your computer may stop working. You may be able to retrieve your information if taken to an IT service. However, if they unable to retrieve your information, you may lose all your documents, music and pictures. Another way you can lose data without knowing is by not using an encrypted webpage when making purchases or entering confidential information. Make sure your computer is always current with its antivirus software to avoid these problems.

Step 3: Malware and Spyware
Malware is the larger version of spyware that works to infect your computer while surfing the Internet. Spyware and malware are the worst types of viruses a computer can become infected with because malware will save your keystrokes and find patterns to what you type to identify your personal information. When you’re personal information gets identified by the malware, it could be used by unauthorized people  and send you links to non-secure websites! Visit www.GetConnectedToday.com to learn more about malware and spyware.

Step 4: Phishing
Usually, a scam begins with an email sent to your email address falsely on behalf of “Your Bank” or other  websites consumers believe to be creditable sources, asking you to reset your password using the link provided within the email. The phishing attack begins if you reply to the email or follow any of the steps as you were instructed within the email. This scam could gain all the e-mail contacts linked to that account, giving the hacker access to your personal information.

Need additional assistance with this lesson?
E-mail questions@club-digital.com or call 888-534-4820

Please note that the following lessons are educational in nature and intended solely to enhance understanding of the opportunities afforded by the Internet.  Companies and websites, as well as products and services, identified in these lessons are provided as examples only.  Neither Club Digital nor any of its sponsors endorses or recommends any of the companies, websites, products, or services identified in these lessons, and further disclaim any responsibility or liability for any activity by such companies, including the operation of their websites, or for any of their products or services.

Cyber Bullying

Another danger you should be aware of is cyber bulling. Because cyber bullying happens more often than reported, it is important for you to understand what it is and how to prevent your child from becoming the victim or the bully. Learn more about cyber bullying here.

Step 1: What is cyber bullying?
Cyber bullying occurs when a child, pre-teen or teenager embarrasses, harasses, or targets another child, pre-teen or teenager either online or through text messaging. As social media grows in popularity, so has cyber bullying and its effects could potentially be dangerous. Visit www.ConnectSafely.org for more information on cyber bullying and social media tips.

Step 2: How can You Protect Your Child from Cyber Bullying?
Talk openly and often to your children about cyber bullying- make sure they know what it is and how to recognize it. Keep your computer in a busy area of the house so it is easier to monitor your children’s activities online, and remind them to never give out personal information online. The National Cyber Security Alliance offers families the opportunity to learn more about protecting children from cyber bullying and harassment. Visit www.StaySafeOnline.org for more information.

Step 3: Signs Your Child is Being Cyber Bullied
Cyber bulling negatively affects children of all ages, and they may often try to hide that it’s going on. Watch out for signs that your child may be a victim of cyber bulling such as: they are hesitant to be online; they hide the computer screen when you enter the room; they stop talking to friends and are not doing well in school; they have trouble sleeping or you notice a change in their personality.

Step 4: Signs Your Child may be Bullying Someone Else
Signs of being a cyber bully are a lot like those of the bully’s victims. Some cyber bullies may quickly close or switch screens on the computer when a parent walks in the room and avoids talking about what they are doing online. Cyber bullies also try to use computers at all hours of the day and night, and may become irritable if you question how long they have been online.  Talk to your child about treating others with respect online.

Step 5: Talking to Your Children about Cyber Bullying
Some children might not know the signs of cyber bullying or if they or someone else they know may be experiencing it. Regardless of whether or not your child is being bullied, or the one bullying another child, it is important to talk to them about the dangers of cyber bullying. For example, Suggest  your children visit Nickelodeon’s website on cyber bullying (www.nick.com/games/the-big-help-are-you-cyber-savvy.html) to take a quiz and test their cyber bullying knowledge.

Need additional assistance with this lesson?
E-mail questions@club-digital.com or call 888-534-4820

Please note that the following lessons are educational in nature and intended solely to enhance understanding of the opportunities afforded by the Internet.  Companies and websites, as well as products and services, identified in these lessons are provided as examples only.  Neither Club Digital nor any of its sponsors endorses or recommends any of the companies, websites, products, or services identified in these lessons, and further disclaim any responsibility or liability for any activity by such companies, including the operation of their websites, or for any of their products or services.

Online Dating

The Internet has the largest collection of resources- did you know this included online dating? Getting connected with people and exploring relationships in a safe and responsible manner is easier than ever! With the help of an online dating service, you could be on your way to establishing a healthy romantic relationship! This lesson will teach you what you need to know about online dating. TIP: Be sure to only share personal information with people you know and trust.

Step 1: What You Need to Know Before
Be smart. Since anyone and everyone can get connected to the Internet and create online profiles, identities, and relationships, it is important to think critically about you read and say. The Internet makes communication faster, easier, and available whenever you need it, which means you have to be careful what you make available online.

Step 2: Picking an Online Dating Service
Do your research before you choose a dating website. Each site has a different style and way of pairing people. Ask yourself these questions when you are choosing your dating website: do you prefer faith-based dating, want to see a lot of pictures, questionnaires and biographies? Two examples of these websites are  www.match.com or www.eHarmony.com for online dating.

Step 3: Creating a Profile
Spend some time considering what you want to share with your online community. You are creating an extension of your real-world identity with pictures and colorful narratives. Avoid personal information such as your home address, social security number, or other sensitive information.

Step 4: Interactions
Once you have created a profile, you are ready to engage many users who are also dating online. Take advantage of the Internet’s various other features to research your mutual hobbies, learn about various cultures, and broaden your horizons.

Step 5: Get Connected!
Once you have established a connection in your online relationship, you can have the option to meet in person. If you choose to meet in person, be sure to keep some safety tips in mind.  For example, meet somewhere public . You could also consider making a group date of the day, and enjoy the company of old and new relationships. The online self is sometimes different from the off-line self, but they can complement each other. If you decide to meet a real person for the first time, keep an open mind and treat the encounter as a blind date with a little foresight. Meet somewhere public and casual to help avoid anxiety and put your best self forward. You could also consider making a group date of the day, and enjoy the company of old and new relationships.

Need additional assistance with this lesson?
E-mail questions@club-digital.com or call 888-534-4820

Please note that the following lessons are educational in nature and intended solely to enhance understanding of the opportunities afforded by the Internet.  Companies and websites, as well as products and services, identified in these lessons are provided as examples only.  Neither Club Digital nor any of its sponsors endorses or recommends any of the companies, websites, products, or services identified in these lessons, and further disclaim any responsibility or liability for any activity by such companies, including the operation of their websites, or for any of their products or services.