Internet Security
The world wide web is the unrestricted, uncensored connection of computers all over the world.
People bank, get government information, and send personal information such as emails, images and more back and forth to friends and businesses daily.
With the amount of financial transactions taking place on the internet, it was only a matter of time before criminals began finding ways to intercept this information.
Called cyber-criminals, they have developed techniques and software to get inside your personal computer, take control of it and siphon off all the valuable information and files it may contain. They may even use your computer to invade other computers.
While there are threats to your security, just as there are in everyday life, there are ways to protect yourself, your family and your information. One of the best and most effective ways is with internet security software such as McAfee and Norton. AVG offers a FREE download available from their website. It is advised to acquire an up-to-date antivirus software immediately if you are going to be on the internet.
Also, if children are going to share the connection, you should learn about potential threats and the reality that they may be exposing their lives to malious strangers. Below are a list of organizations and government enitites that can help you learn more about safe practices on the web.
Kids and the Internet
http://www.netsmartz.org/
Teaching children what to watch out for when surfing
the internet with fun and interactive games.
http://www.ftc.gov/infosecurity
The FTC offers tips for consumers and businesses on
computer security and protecting personal information.
http://www.getnetwise.org/
GetNetWise allows users to be only "one click away"
from the resources they need to make informed decisions
about their family's use of the Internet.
http://www.cybersmart.org/
The CyberSmart! School Program offers the first professionally
developed curriculum for elementary and middle schools,
promoting responsible and effective computer and Internet
use. Provided free of charge, this curriculum includes
65 original, standards-based teacher lesson plans with
student activity sheets developed by educators and curriculum
specialists. Tips for high school students on safeguarding
their computer and America's cyber-infrastructure, and
CyberSmart! professional development for teachers are
also provided.
Government and Industry Resources
http://www.sans.org/top20.htm
The SANS Institute.
The Twenty Most Critical Internet Security Vulnerabilities
(Updated)
http://www.cert.org/tech_tips/home_networks.html
This is a site for definitive data on important vulnerabilities
that are being exploited and what can be done to improve
the problem. Also offers an email alert service. The
data is often highly technical.
http://www.cio.com/research/security
Security and Privacy Research Center. The right information
for the right people.
http://www.cybercitizenship.org/
The Cybercitizen Awareness Program educates children
and young adults on the danger and consequences of cyber
crime. By reaching out to parents and teachers, the
program is designed to establish a broad sense of responsibility
and community in an effort to develop smart, ethical
and socially conscious online behavior in young people.