Introduction
Social networks have become quite an essential element of contemporary society that it is difficult to fathom existence without them. What can we say about youths when most of them get up and fall asleep with their phones in hand, rarely leaving the realm of social media. Yes, these networks offer limitless opportunities. And if earlier it was just communication and entertainment, nowadays they use social networks as a way of self-expression. You can even find channels for promoting educational topics. However, despite its many benefits, social media also poses potential security risks. So, both parents and educational institutions, i.e. society as a whole, are facing a difficult challenge. How can we equip students with the necessary knowledge to stay safe online? This article looks at how we can prepare young people for responsible use of social media and focuses on the key factors that contribute to online safety.
Table of Contents
Digital Literacy as a Necessity
Internet safety education for children should begin as early as possible. Students who understand the fundamentals of the Internet will be better able to defend themselves against bullies, scammers, and other hazards. Therefore, the following skills should be among the mandatory ones:
- creating strong passwords,
- avoiding dangerous websites,
- recognizing phishing attacks.
It is important to teach not only the basics but also to develop critical thinking. It will help young people analyze information accurately to avoid manipulation. Critical thinking is also necessary for responsible behavior in the digital environment.
We would like to pay attention to such a popular platform as TikTok. It is highly influential among young people. This platform has gained countless fans thanks to the way it allows young people to express themselves. At the same time, it has become a target for hackers. Therefore, it is understandable that many parents of young users, as well as students themselves, periodically worry whether their TikTok account hacked or look for information on how to regain control of the account and how to get back into the TikTok account. That is why it is crucial to act immediately in case of a TikTok hack. Signs of a hacked account include a sudden change of password or activity that you did not perform. But if you realize that you don’t have enough knowledge on your own, don’t hesitate to contact TikTok hacked support. So, it is undeniable that in today’s realities, it is imperative to understand how to know if your TikTok is hacked to be ready to react quickly in case of danger and to ensure that you can use social media at your own pleasure
Responsibility Formation. The Role of Curricula
School and college curricula can provide an excellent basis for teaching safe Internet use. For this purpose, safety lessons should cover the following areas. Privacy basics. Understanding cyberbullying. Recognizing fraudulent schemes.
Privacy basics
How to set up privacy on social media
That is, students should learn how to properly configure privacy settings so that their accounts are accessible only to trusted individuals. In other words, they should be able to:
– limit access to posts,
– prevent strangers from viewing their profile,
– reduce the likelihood of receiving unwanted messages.
How to protect personal data
Students should understand the importance of maintaining privacy. In particular, they must know that they should not publish addresses, phone numbers, or personal information that can be used for fraud.
How to create strong passwords
Developing strong password combinations and updating them regularly are mandatory elements of personal data protection.
Understanding cyberbullying
Students should learn to recognize cyberbullying
This means understanding where an offensive message, public ridicule, or spreading of rumors online is taking place.
Students need to have the right response to cyberbullying
This means knowing who to contact for help in case of online bullying. These can be trusted adults, law enforcement agencies, school psychologists, and support platforms.
Know how to prevent bullying
It is necessary to teach that jokes can be mean and then they become insults, as well as to cultivate respect for other users.
Recognizing fraudulent schemes
Teachers can implement interactive exercises to help reinforce theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills. In particular, this can be done through:
· analyzing real-life cases,
· role-playing games,
· creating their own rules for internet safety.
Ethics of Social Media Use
Understanding that actions on the Internet have consequences helps to create more responsible users. Therefore, understanding the ethical aspects should be an integral part of education. Namely, how to use social media responsibly. This should include the following important aspects.
Respect for the privacy of others
To teach not to disclose other people’s data without permission.
Following community rules
Teach students not to spread misinformation, offend, or use illegal content.
Creating positive content
Explain that it is best to use platforms to raise awareness and support good initiatives
Practical Recommendations
To create online safety, young users should follow simple yet effective rules. Following the recommendations below will help keep your data safe and avoid many risks.
Do not post unnecessary information
Don’t share your place of residence, phone numbers, or personal details.
Update your passwords regularly
Use unique combinations when creating them and change them regularly.
Check links carefully before opening them
Don’t click on suspicious attachments in messages or links that look questionable.
Use two-factor authentication
This will make it much harder for hackers to access your accounts.
Choose your circle of contacts carefully
Only add people you know to your friends list. Carefully review profiles of friend requesters, paying attention to the absence of real photos and posts.
Use official apps and resources
Download apps only from official sources. Fake apps may contain malware. Update your apps regularly, as developers release updates to address security vulnerabilities.
Do not enter passwords on unsecured websites
Always check for HTTPS in the browser address bar before entering your password. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks. If you need to, use a VPN.
Be careful with geolocation
Turn off the automatic location feature if you don’t need it. This can protect you from harassment. Avoid giving your exact place of residence and study.
Conclusion
Every modern institution’s curriculum should include instruction on how to use social media securely. Knowing the fundamentals of digital literacy, as well as the risks and responsibilities associated with online activities, can enable young people to utilize the Internet in a useful and safe manner. It’s important to remember that online safety is a shared responsibility. So, by educating students how to correctly utilize social media, we lay the groundwork for a safe future in the digital world.
