.Saturday, July 10, 2010 ' 10:46 PM Y
Introduction to the Internet
As the world advances into the modern Information Technology (IT) age, the internet has become a common usage by many. In contrast to the past bulky computers decades back when Microsoft Word software was still a big hit, the internet in present appeals to the tech-savvy generation. The existence of internet connectivity has made communication easier with possible immediate responses from the other party. Information is widely available and accessible, be it coming from opposite regions of the globe. Majority of those living in the 21st century, with regards to frequent users of the internet, would have come across famous websites such as 'Friendster', 'Facebook', 'Twitter', 'Youtube' etc... Once the user logs on to the internet and visit various sites, every single information that needs to be researched on via the web can be found directly at his fingertips. To carry out online transactions such as banking, shopping and booking of tickets has become more convenient. Just by staying at home and transacting online, one can get many things done. An added advantage, the millions of sites easily surfed on the internet help to kill boredom. The happenings of world and entertainment events can be read directly from news sites. As a result of the numerous benefits the internet brings, it is much appreciated by everyone, especially heavy users. (Those who use the internet for communication/carry out transactions/gaming etc...)
Dangers of the Internet
Despite the many benefits of the internet, the fact that this includes dangers posed is also inevitable. This mostly occurs when conmen make use of the internet to create scams/ young innocent girls fall prey to love cheats whom they communicate with solely online.
There are always two sides to everything. On one hand, almost any information needed can be found from the internet. Plus, casually surfing the internet and chatting with friends via MSN messenger are forms of leisure activities. However, who can see the face that lies beyond the computer screen? Who are you actually communicating with if you do not know the person? This remains unknown unless through the use of webcams or videoconferencing. The mysteriousness within the internet has yet to be revealed…
Tricks up the Sleeves
While using the internet, a message may suddenly pop-out, 'You have won 1 million dollars in lottery!' Does one have any idea who it is from? What lottery ticket are they referring to? This seems to puzzle most people in general who receive such messages especially through their own personal email accounts. Or maybe with promises of guaranteed returns if one invests money into a 'share'. Usually, lump sums of money by the 'investor' will be deposited into a particular bank account. However, the contact with the unknown party soon ceases. As a result, the money is gone just like that. Everyone knows that there is no such thing as a free lunch in this world... There is definitely a catch to such 'false' benefits. Many people have fallen into the tricks of those conmen.
Let's take students for example. MSN messenger is a common online chatting site. Thus, there is a possibility that one may end up communicating with strangers who is added under their contacts. How can one know for sure that the other party is saying the truth? Personal information can be hidden for a period. But in real life, there are previous cases whereby the exact person who claims to be a teenage boy aged 17 may turn out to be a middle-aged man.
Cyber-bullying
On the surface, the internet may seem to be harmless tool. One just sits front of the computer, clicking and typing away. How can it possibly be a ‘danger’? However, forums and blogs are created on internet sites, whereby the public can share their views with others. In addition, there are many online games such as MapleSea/Audition/GetAmped etc... which many young teens fancy and enjoy. With all the interaction going on with one another, regardless of whether friends or strangers, this may lead to cyber-bullying of a targeted person. Such as a group of teens gather together using their virtual identities and pick up a fight or tease another vulnerable character. This may lead to severe consequences. There have been recent articles published in newspapers regarding blog quarrels and via Facebook. The internet is a free speech arena. In forums, one can post anything he wants, be it criticisms/vulgarities/voicing out his anger and so on.
Cyber Wellness
Cyber Wellness comprises of knowing how to protect oneself from dangers posed by the internet, abiding by the internet safety rules and maintaining the positive well-being of users by developing a healthy cyber culture. Therefore, it is essential that one uses the internet wisely. Sometimes, there are people who illegally download songs from the internet. In their opinion, this is simply what everyone has been doing. Since the songs are uploaded onto the website, which is meant to be downloaded, how could it be considered illegal?
Education Curriculum
Schools have implemented Civics/Moral Education lessons to inculcate values into students. One of the modules under such lessons is cyber wellness, which aims to educate the students on cyber awareness. They learn to be careful while using the internet, refrain from chatting with strangers and falling into scams. Being taught from young, the students will have a better idea of how to protect themselves and be a healthy cyber well-being.
Conclusion
Overall, everyone should have a clear understanding of the meanings behind cyber wellness. With added awareness, they can be cautious while using the internet. This prevents scams and cheats from succeeding. Also, people will ensure that whatever activities they commit using the internet is legal. To lead a safe cyber lifestyle starts from individuals themselves.
-Pearlyn :D-
Labels: Cyber Wellness
