A word of caution for students
A word of caution for students(Pic: EdexLive Desk)

Pitfalls of cyberspace for students: Privacy, phishing scams and more

Dr VS Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Vice-Chancellor, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, talks about why cyberspace is not always safe and secure for students
Published on
Q

With the abundance of online scams, from phishing to more sophisticated threats, what can students do to protect themselves and stay safe in cyberspace?

A

Staying safe in cyberspace is crucial for students, as they are often targeted by online scams and cyber threats. Students ought to educate themselves about common threats such as phishing, malware, and social engineering, and learn how to recognise suspicious emails, links, and websites. Regularly updating software and operating systems helps protect against vulnerabilities that cybercriminals might exploit.

Students should also be cautious when sharing personal information online and be mindful of privacy settings on social media platforms. Using strong, unique passwords for different accounts and using two-factor authentication can add an extra layer of security. Using reliable and updated antivirus software can provide additional protection against malware.

Cultivating a habit of critical thinking and scepticism while encountering unsolicited communications or unfamiliar online requests can help in avoiding scams.

Making use of the government online portal for raising complaints https://cybercrime.gov.in/ should be considered strongly by the students. They are the next generation of cybersecurity professionals who can promote a culture of safety and responsibility in this fastly evolving digital age.

Staying safe in cyberspace requires a combination of awareness, education, and proactive security measures.

By understanding common threats, practising good cybersecurity habits, and using the tools and resources available, students can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to online scams and other cyber threats.

Q

How can students, in particular, and mobile users, in general, protect their private data?

A

Ethical responsibilities in cyberspace are crucial for maintaining a safe, respectful, and trustworthy online environment. By respecting privacy, practising integrity, adhering to laws, and promoting positive interactions, individuals can contribute to a more ethical and secure digital world.

These principles not only protect personal and organisational interests but also help build a trustworthy and collaborative online community.

Concerning the topic of discussion, the public and students must understand that nothing comes free in life. Even in the freely provided mobile apps that we use, app developers can start collecting all our data and improve their business by identifying our needs and interests.

Mobile users thus must remain vigilant to avoid falling prey to scams and fraudulent activities that can lead to monetary loss. By understanding the risks and taking pre-emptive measures, users can protect themselves and their money from these sorts of sophisticated threats.

As mobiles are extensively used by everyone, a thorough knowledge of the usage of mobile apps and their configuration setup is essential to protect private data. 

Q

Any concluding words for the students?

A

Today’s youth are fortunate, since India’s growth prospects are robust, sustained by its demographic advantage, economic reforms, infrastructure growth, and technological revolution.

India’s population is well-positioned to cater to global skilled professionals’ market demands. India is likely to continue supplying a substantial portion of the global workforce in ageing economies.

This trend benefits both India, through remittances and knowledge transfer, and the host countries, by filling their critical talent and manpower shortages.

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