"Wise" Tips about the World Wide Web
With the
latest Facebook, MySpace, and ConnectU crazes sweeping universities
nationwide, UVa-Wise would like to offer some "Wise" tips to keep
your surfing fun and safe. Please note that the following is only a
list of suggestions. UVa-Wise is not responsible for material
published on the Internet by our students. The information published
by students does not, in any way, reflect the college or its
faculty, staff, and administration.
First,
be aware that the moment you publish information to the Internet,
that information becomes public information, available for
anyone to see, read, or print. Remember that if you can log onto
Facebook or MySpace, so can your professor, your parents, and your
future employers. Be conscious of the image you are creating for
yourself.
Second,
when using any online community confirm that the most private
security setting is selected. Facebook, for example, allows users to
block any visitors not on his or her "Friends List" from viewing a
profile. Do yourself a favor and use this tool effectively.
Third,
avoid listing personal information such as resident hall room
numbers, cell phone numbers, and class schedules. Friends listed on
your "Friends List" will already know this information. Withholding
personal contact information from public websites like Facebook and
MySpace reduces your chances of being harassed or victimized.
Fourth,
although instant messaging programs are not prohibited on the UVa-Wise
campus, OIT strongly recommends that you configure your settings to
NOT allow automatic downloads and file transfers. By selecting this
option, the user (you) will be allowed to monitor who sends you
files and whether or not to accept these files.
Fifth,
always question suspicious emails and instant messaging profile
links. Email scams and viruses are often sent out without notifying
the "sender." For example, your aunt Anne could be a victim of an
email virus. Because you are listed in her address book you receive
the same fraudulent email. Just because the email is from Aunt Anne,
does not certify its authenticity. As for instant messaging,
although links in profiles are tempting to click, be aware that most
often, these links are viruses that will affect your own personal
computer. Always check with the user before clicking on a link.
Sixth,
downloading copyrighted music without paying for it is illegal. UVa-Wise
provides an internet connection for scholastic purposes above all
other uses. Abusing this privilege, and yes, it is a privilege, can
result in both fines and negative marks on your academic record.
For more
information, check out these informational websites:
Other colleges and
universities are also taking note by helping their students protect
themselves against online predators. Please visit these other
university links for more information about their online security
recommendations:
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