The Digital Citizen's Guide to Cyber Security
by Antoinette King
Communicating and connecting with others before the internet was simple – we had only a few channels to share information, and these channels required effort to use. Thirty years ago, no one worried about digital addiction, fake news sites, or cyberbullying. None of those problems existed! At the same time, past generations never experienced the level of social interaction we now hold at our fingertips.
Today, with one tap of our fingers, we can talk to someone from across the globe, learn about international conflict, and educate ourselves on any known culture. Our offices now use multiple communications channels; our children have smartphones and laptops to keep them up-to-date with schoolwork and their social lives. Our access to others and the world around us is endless; yet we are still in the information age’s early days.
With great access comes great responsibility. We are all digital citizens participating in a global digital community, whether we recognize it or not.
The Digital Citizen’s Guide to Cybersecurity empowers readers to reclaim control over how we engage online.
Drawing from more than two decades of experience in the security industry, author Antoinette King guides our newest generation of digital citizens on how to practice easy and actionable cyber hygiene on a daily basis.
* Readers will also have access to practical toolkits and checklists to keep track of the best practices for safe internet use, including:
Tips and Tricks for Protecting Your Information:
We share stories, recipes, personal likes and dislikes, facts about our pasts, and so much more when we engage online. The information we share online can very well lead to real-life consequences, including identity theft, personal data monetization, and falling victim to scams.
Understanding What You’re Agreeing To:
We will break down some surprising policies in the most popular social media platform terms and conditions agreements.
Steps for Managing Cyberbullying:
An excellent digital citizen knows that their care and consideration for others extends to online communities. We must all be responsible for recognizing, managing, and preventing cyberbullying.
Don’t Get Hooked: How to Avoid Phishing Scams:
Scammers go through extraordinary measures to con people and are continually innovating new ways to trick you into sharing your private information.
How to Avoid Falling for Love Scams:
Two main groups are at the highest risk of falling victim to love scams: children and the elderly. By keeping honest and open communication, parents can help their children make good choices, curate a positive digital environment, and recognize predatory behavior.
Tricks for Avoiding Fake News:
By leveraging your critical thinking skills to consider your thoughts, morals, and opinions, you help yourself become a more thoughtful and well-informed individual who isn’t quick to jump on the bandwagon.
Hit the Empower Button:
Learn how to assess the time you use on the internet and create healthy habits for internet consumption.
The internet can be a gift. We must learn to use it responsibly for ourselves and others. After all, cybersecurity isn’t simply your responsibility—it’s everyone’s responsibility.