Ethics and Security
Introduction
One of the things that you hear about the most in relation to the internet is security. It's a big word, and it tends to conjure unsettling thoughts of dead computers and lost files. But security is actually a much bigger thing than that, and it all starts with a little common sense. Sure, some safe guards are nice, and a firewall and some helpful programs can't hurt. But the vast majority of keeping your computer safe deals with just common sense.
Common Sense
Common sense is a good thing. You usually have it, and it usually isn't a problem. But because computers and the internet are relatively new to the general public, common sense hasn't quite developed 100%. Here are some common sense tips:
- Don't download any files from a site you don't know.
- Don't open e-mails from people you don't know.
- If you're not worried about bugs and stuff, just don't open them for the sheer stupidity of the content.
- Don't put up too much personal info online. This includes (but not limited to):
- Full name
- Phone number
- Address
- Social security number
- Be careful about your age and e-mail as well
Malicious Hacking/Cracking
Malicious attacks such as spyware and viruses are usually what people think of when they hear the word 'security'. These are the most obvious of the security risks you will encounter, you will also have a wider variety of tools to help you ward them off. These tools will come in the form of software that can prevent, detect, and remove malicious programs from your computer.
Legalities
Viruses aren't the only danger out there. You can get into trouble even if you haven't put your computer at risk. Violating copywrites and plagiarising materials can get you into serious trouble. This is very important because the copywrites and ownership information isn't always clear online.
Plagiarism
You have no doubt heard of plaiarism many times in your classes. It's a stupid thing to do. Unfortunetly, it's easy to accidentally plagiarize online. Here are some ways to avoid it:
- If you are copying more than about 5 words from a site - put it in quotes and cite it.
- If you are quoting more than a line or two at a time (say a paragraph) it needs to be formatted differently and cited.
- Cite it. If you don't know it already, look up the MLA format and use it.
- Guffy, Mary Ellen Style Electronic Formats Retrieved August 17, 2006
Copyright
Copyright is more of an issue with images as opposed to words. This has become an increasing problem on the internet because of how easy it is to simply download an image off of one site, and then use it on another. Some people don't mind sharing their photographs or art with anyone. They'll usually put a note on their site saying that their images are free to anyone to use. Other people like to keep track of their work. The problem is that not everyone states on their site if their images are copyrighted or not.
| Important! | Always assume that images are copyrighted unless it specifically says that they aren't. Better safe than sorry |
Common Sense [Reprise]
No one likes turning on their computer and finding their files corrupted, their OS mucked up, or their computer bogged down because of a bug or malicious code. I'm sure you don't like that thought very much either. So don't go off and try to create malicious code or a bug.
Same thing goes for firewalls - particularly ones in schools and buisnesses. Sure they might be blocking a site you need to get to that really isn't a risk - you know since you're on it all the time at home. Don't try and bypass it. Instead, go talk to your IT person. They will either be able to explain to you why that particular site is blocked, or they might be able to get you around the firewall. Legally. The firewalls are there for a reason.