Staying
safe in the digital age:Sensible approaches to online communication
Course description
|
Staying
safe in the digital age: Sensible approaches to online communication Course description |
The purpose of this course is to teach you a variety of safe Internet practices that will reduce your chances of becoming a victim of cybercrime, including identity theft, electronic harassment, and fraud. You will learn
- how to avoid online scams and "phishing" schemes;
- how to reduce spam, pop-up ads, unwanted cookies;
- how to recognize Internet hoaxes and “urban legends”
- how to protect your computer with virus detection, firewalls, and anti-spyware software;
- how to protect yourself from identity theft, electronic harassment and cyberstalking; and
- what to do if you're targeted.
This course focuses on sensible approaches to online communication; it is not an endorsement or tutorial for specific software applications, nor is it a complete cybersafety resource. Taking this course will not guarantee you can avoid all forms of cybercrime.
Prerequisites: None. This course is intended for computer users of all skill levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Required resources: computer, Internet connection, Web browser, e-mail
Recommended reading (optional): Net Crimes & Misdemeanors, 2nd Edition, by Jayne Hitchcock, available at http://www.netcrimes.net/.Instructor: Cindy Eves-Thomas
Directions: "Staying safe in the digital age" is a free, 5-part online course. Each self-paced lesson takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete. The course is not for credit. There is no homework. A self-assessment quiz at the start and end of the course will help you determine your progress.
Syllabus:
Lesson 1
Cybercrime: Are you at risk?
Learn how your online practices could be putting you, your family, and your property at risk.Lesson 2
"Trust no one"?
Learn how to recognize Internet hoaxes and "urban legends"; learn how avoid online scams, fraud, and "phishing" schemes.Lesson 3
Cyberspace invaders
Learn about tools and safe Internet practices that can help reduce spam, eliminate pop-up ads, and block unwanted cookies, adware, and spyware.Lesson 4
Protect your computer
Learn about viruses, worms, and malware (malicious software); learn how to protect your computer against destructive invaders through virus detection, firewalls, and savvy Internet practices.Lesson 5
Protect yourself
Learn how to protect yourself from identity theft, invasion of privacy, electronic harassment, and cyberstalking; learn where to go and who to contact if you become a victim of cybercrime.
Author: Cindy Eves-Thomas, Graphic Designer/Webmaster, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Reviewers:
- John Dorner, Extension Area Specialized Agent, Information Management, North Carolina Cooperative Extension
- Lorraine Evans, Managing Director, InfoTrain Ltd.
- Jayne Hitchcock, President, WHOA & WHOA-KTD
- Carey Nason, Coordinator of the Safe Campus Project, The University of Maine
- Sheila Vaillancourt, Computer Office Assistant, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
 |
Accessibility | Non-discrimination and Disability Resources | Non-disclosure |
A Member of the University of Maine System |