Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi
We are all connected to the internet in modern times. With just one click, you can access a variety of learning materials, engaging activities, and trading options. The internet’s benefits come with its own set of challenges. Why? Common cyber attacks, such as hacking, phishing, and bullying attacks or the theft of user data, are among them. The internet’s security is a top priority for education, parents, and responsible citizens.
To promote online safety, globally recognized Safer Internet Day is held on the second Tuesday of February. “Together for a Better Internet” is an annual theme that emphasizes the significance of digital safety and cooperation. As someone who is passionate about education and supporting programmes like NEP 2020, FLN, and Nipun Bharat, I think that we should all learn about internet safety before entering our schools and into our daily routines.
Why cyber hygiene matters
Individuals use cyber hygiene to maintain protection of their personal information and devices. We have the ability to teach children how to be clean, but we also need a training that includes online hygiene.
How important is this? I can give a brief overview of some alarming facts.
1. It is believed that cybercrime is becoming more common, and it is also alleged that hackers are targeting younger generations.
2. The act of unknowingly sharing personal information on social networking or game related accounts can lead to identity theft and the acquisition of incorrect elements, which is a common concern among students.
3. It’s an incredibly serious issue, cyber bullying. Their being harassed is a common cause of stress, anxiety, and depression.
4. The dissemination of misinformation and false news is swift, but the lack of digital literacy can make it difficult for students to comprehend fake news.
Given these risks, I strongly feel that cyber hygiene should be taught as a serious subject in school. Why? This is why we need Safer Internet Day.
Safer internet day in schools
Technology in education, and I have seen. Digital learning platforms have introduced new challenges, such as the need to make knowledge accessible. The purpose of Safer Internet Day is to raise awareness among students about online practices and safety, rather than just being an event. It’s a necessary movement.
As educators and parents, it is crucial to inform students about what.
Strong passwords and privacy settings
Construct dependable and unconventional passwords for students, constantly improving them.
Educate them on the importance of setting privacy settings on social media platforms.
Recognizing cyber threats
Instruct them about potential threats, malware attacks, and suspicious web content.
Instruct them to think before making a decision.
Responsible social media use
Discuss excessive disclosure of personal details?
Boost positive online behavior and discourage cyberbullying.edu?
Fact check and fake news identification
Enable pupils to authenticate news reports.
Encourage them to ponder before accepting or sharing information.
These lessons can be put into action through workshops, competitions, and interactive sessions held during Safer Internet Day in schools. From what I’ve seen, students engage in activities like making posters and participating in debates about cyber security.
What steps can we take to promote online security?
Given my passion for education and teaching, I’ve always believed in collaborating to solve problems. Safe internet practices are not exclusive to schools, as parents, policymakers, and students must also take responsibility.
It’s up to schools and teachers
We need to add cyber safety modules in our course.’ Schools should conduct online awareness sessions that educate students on internet safety. Additionally, educators should keep themselves informed about the latest cyber threats that could affect their teaching of students.
Parenting requires increased involvement
A lot of parents are unaware of their children’s online activities. I often advise parents to:
Implement parental control measures on devices.
Encourage children to be open about online issues and remain engaged.
Take it to their parents to educate themselves on the importance of staying safe online.
Students must take responsibility
Students must embrace and embrace digital citizenship as their identity card. They should:
Report cyberbullying or suspicious activities.
Do not disclose your feelings to strangers.
Give careful consideration before accessing links or downloading apps.
Government and policymakers are urged to strengthen cyber security laws
To prevent children from being exploited on the internet, the government must enforce strict cyber laws. Although the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s ISEA Project is a positive step, we need to increase awareness through grassroots initiatives.
Calling all to join hands
It’s important to recognize that Safer Internet Day is not just a single day of awareness, but also enact yearly initiatives. Our role is to educate and spread knowledge. It is important to provide guidance to our children as parents. We as students must be accountable for our online behavior.
My colleagues, parents, and students, I want to urge you all that the internet is safe. Until cyber threats take effect, it’s important to act now. Rather than doing it, let’s take steps to educate ourselves and others. It’s important for teachers to talk about cyber hygiene in their next class. As a parent, share your children’s online presence with them. Responsible internet use is a must for students.
Our efforts can result in a more secure digital world. Make online safety a lifelong commitment and observe Safer Internet Day with all of our efforts.
(The author is a teacher. He hails from Boniyar, Baramulla and can be reached at [email protected])
