Solutions: Libraries and Orgs. - Cybersafety Training

Implement Cybersafety Training

GOAL: Ensure that community members are aware of how to navigate the Internet safely.

DESCRIPTION: Create a program designed to help community members who are using the Internet to identify and avoid situations that could threaten their safety, threaten business or government networks, compromise confidential information, compromise the safety of children, compromise identities and financial information, or destroy reputations.

There are many risks, some more serious than others, when using the Internet.  Among these dangers are viruses erasing entire systems, a hacker breaking into a system and altering files, someone using someone else’s computer to attack others, someone stealing credit card information, sexual predators making advances at children, and criminals making unauthorized purchases.

Unfortunately, there's not a 100% guarantee that even with the best precautions some of these things won't happen, but there are steps that can be taken to minimize the chances.

ACTIONS:

Partner with a local library or community center to offer security awareness training initiatives that include classroom style training sessions and security awareness websites and information booklets.

Trainers could include technology advocates, private businesses specializing in cybersecurity, web development, etc., local law enforcement, and others. Additionally, financial institutions often have cybersecurity training and curriculum for their members that could be leveraged to help the entire community.

Cybersecurity should be addressed to both residents and businesses.

Some libraries and organizations may already have cybersecurity training established. These programs can be expanded in content and availability to the community.

Awareness training can also be used to alleviate anxiety for community members who are not using the Internet because of fear of cyber threats.

RESPONSIBLE PARTIES:

Libraries and library co-ops; Schools; Non-profit organizations, particularly those with a technology focus; Businesses specializing in web security and identity protection; Local financial institutions; Law enforcement

 RESOURCES:

Internet Safety: http://www.gcflearnfree.org/internetsafety/

Cyber Safety: http://ikeepsafe.org/educators_old/more/c3-matrix/cyber-safety/

Digital Citizenship: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/educators/digital-citizenship.

Digizen: http://www.digizen.org/

Better Internet for Kids: https://www.betterinternetforkids.eu/.

How School Librarians Can Assist You: http://www.ala.org/aasl/parents/internet.

CyberWise: http://www.cyberwise.org/