1. Ashford University
Class:
EDU352: Foundations of Educational Technology
Instructor:
JamieSullivan
Class Dates:
October 11 November 14, 2011
Week One: Discussion 2

2. 10 WAYS TO KEEP YOU
AND YOUR COMPUTER DATA SAFE.

3. Understand, you are entering an open global community.

4. Tip # 1:
Be a responsible online citizen.
Similar to being a local citizen, you are now part of the internet global community. Utilize good manners and continue to follow common societal laws.

5. Tip # 2:
Use and maintain an anti-virus, spyware remover, and firewall software on your computer.
A firewall helps to prevent hackers from breaking into your computer.
An anti-virus protects your computer files from getting damaged or destroyed.
NOTE:
Talk to the software support staff at your local electronics store for recommendations.

6. Tip # 3:
When creating a login name and password, keep this information private and in a safe place.
Create a different password for each login name and add numbers and special symbols. This way, it makes it more difficult for someone to guess.
NOTE:
If you believe your password has been comprised, change it immediately.

7. Tip # 4:
NEVER open e-mails from unknown senders.
These types of files may carry a virus that may permanently damage files or destroy your computers operating system.
Especially beware of emails with attached files that have an .exe even its from a known source.
NOTE:
Always check to make sure a senders email address is exact. One method utilized by hackers is to use a similar name to trick you into opening the email.

8. Tip # 5:
Do not give strangers access to your computer.
This practice may allow someone to infect your computer with a virus or to look at your personal data.
NOTE:
Review your computer owners manual or operating systems help menu to learn how to disable file sharing.

9. Tip # 6:
Disconnect from the Internet when not in use.
The Internet is a two-way road. You get information and also send information.
NOTE:
When you log off the internet this assures that someone cannot enter your computer to cause harm.

10. Tip # 7:
Check for security updates on each software installed on your computer.
It is wise to add this process to your computer to do list. The updates will fix any identified glitches and improve the overall function of the software.
NOTE:
These updates may be called quick fixes or patches. There is no charge to the user.

11. Tip # 8:
Back-up your computer!!!
If you LOVE what your computer can do for you, back-up all your data files, at leastonce a week. And store the back-up in a safe place.
Methods you can use:
Flash drive stick
2. Disk
3. External hard-drive
4. A reputable online service
NOTE:
NEVER skip this step. If you do, one day youll regret it.

12. Tip # 9:
BEWARE of stranger danger!
Keep yourself safe. NEVER give out your personal information like: your full name, your address, or your telephone number to strangers.

13. Tip # 10:
As a reminder, review tips 1-9 a couple of times per year.
Stay safe and happy computing for years to come!

14. References:
Animation Factory. Retrieved from: http://www.animationgold.com/computer2.htm
Dreamstime. Retrieved from: http://www.dreamstime.com/register
Education World. Retrieved from: http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech055.shtml
Google. Retrieved from: http://www.google.com/search?q=computer+clipart&hl=en&qscrl=1&nord=1&rlz=1T4TSNF_enUS426US426&biw=1093&bih=398&site=webhp&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=oOaWTqS3Oqz_sQK476TVBA&sqi=2&ved=0CCYQsAQ
Hubbard Township Police. Retrieved from: http://www.hubbardtwppd.org/Homeland/online.htm
Shutter Stock. Retrieved from: http://www.shutterstock.com
Templates Wise. Retrieved from: http://www.templateswise.com/free_music_loops/detail/link-18.html