Cyber Security Tips for Students at Home

Learn about this shocking fact: Even if you delete a photo or message from social media, copies still exist in backups, on servers, or screenshots taken by others. This means your “deleted” content can reappear anytime. Also, many students unknowingly share their school name, location, or date of birth on social media, and hackers can easily use it for identity theft or to guess the password.

If you are a student or a parent, read this guide to understand the cybersecurity tips that are necessary to be followed at home by students. Also, explore cyber insurance policies and identity theft insurance from Bajaj General Insurance that will help you remain protected from online threats.

Why Cyber Safety is Essential for Students?

Cyber safety is essential for students because it protects them from online threats. With an increase in the number of students who access digital platforms for education and social interaction, it is important that parents and elders inform them about cybersecurity threats so that they do not fall victim to any cybercrime incident.

The following are the reasons why cyber safety is essential for students:

• Students sometimes overshare personal information and are not aware of the dangers of sharing location data or contact information online.
• Incidents like cyberbullying and online harassment affect the mental health and academic performance of students.
• Students may fall prey to phishing attempts or may download malware accidentally and damage their devices.
• When students use devices from their institutions to access the internet, it is important that they safeguard institutional data, as educational institutions store large amounts of sensitive student data.
• Excess use of screen time and exposure to inappropriate online content can negatively harm the mental well-being of students.

These reasons make it necessary for students to learn important cybersecurity tips.

Understanding Cyber Safety Tips for Students

The following are the cybersecurity tips that will safeguard students from online threats and protect their well-being.

Manage Your Password

Do not use your name or personal information in passwords as hackers can guess them easily. Passwords should be formed using a strong combination of upper and lowercase letters and numbers/symbols. Also, when you use two-factor authentication (TFA), it adds an extra layer of security.

Being Aware Of Phishing Scams

If you receive a phone call asking for sensitive information like a password or OTP, do not respond as these are phishing calls. Similarly, if you receive mail asking you to click on unknown links, beware; these may take you to unknown websites where your personal account may be hacked.

Protecting Your Devices

To protect your devices from risks or viruses, install anti-virus software and update your system and browsers regularly. Also, when you access any website, check for the ‘https’ symbol with a padlock icon that indicates safe websites.

Protecting Your Privacy Online

When you share personal details or post photos on your profile, check the privacy settings so that it cannot be seen by the public but can be viewed by your family and friends only. Also, control who can interact with you and access the information you have posted.

Be Alert When Using Public Wi-Fi

Sensitive activities like online banking should not be performed when accessing a public Wi-Fi system. Also, do not shop on unsecured networks, or else your data may be intercepted.

Being Conscious When Using Social Media

The information that you post online is permanent, and your posts can be accessed even after you delete them. So be mindful when posting anything online. Also, if you find yourself facing harassment from anyone on the internet, block them.

Protect Your Data By Downloading Important Files

Malware attacks can ruin your files, and it will be difficult to retrieve them. To avoid this, back up important files and school and college projects to external drives or secure cloud storage.

Download Only From Trusted Sources

Use only trusted sources for downloading apps and files, and use antivirus software to scan the files you have downloaded.

Inform Your Parents If You Come Across Something Unfamiliar

Do not hesitate and inform your parents if you come across unfamiliar incidents when using the internet or accessing your account. They will help you navigate the online world safely.

Cyber safety is a continuous process that involves awareness, vigilance, and responsible digital habits. Staying informed about common online threats and regularly practicing these tips will help students confidently navigate the internet and protect themselves in the digital world.

Conclusion

When you study from home, these tips will help you make the environment safe and stress-free so that you can focus on achieving your goals. Being aware of the threats that linger online is the first step towards being educated about cybersecurity tips.

Bajaj General Insurance provides cyber insurance policies for individuals, which will help them accomplish their tasks with confidence without worrying about the what-ifs.

FAQs

1. What should I do if I face cyberbullying or online harassment?

If you face cyberbullying, do not respond to the bully. Immediately take a screenshot of the messages so that you can use them as evidence and inform your parents. Also, block the user on the platform.

2. Are public Wi-Fi networks safe for students to use?

Public Wi-Fi networks are not safe as hackers can access your data through these connections. So, do not use public Wi-Fi networks when you perform sensitive tasks like online banking.

3. What are phishing scams?

Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts to steal your personal data. It can be done through fake emails, calls, or links.

4. How often should students update their devices or antivirus software?

As a student, you should update your devices regularly and the browsers as well. Update and fix the bugs to improve protection.

5. Can parents help in ensuring cyber safety for students?

Yes, parents can guide their kids and educate them about safe online activity. An open communication environment will create a safe experience for students.

6. What should students do if their social media account gets hacked?

If your account gets hacked, immediately change the password, and then log out from all devices. Also, do not hide such incidents from parents so that they can take the right action.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.