Secure the Distance: How to Protect the Personal Data of Students Enrolled in Online Education

Photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash

Personal data protection consists of technical and organizational measures.

This article examines the security measures currently available for distance learning and what educational institutions should do to follow security best practices.

The International Telecommunication Union provides the following recommendations for schools and institutions of higher education:

• “Provide a reliable school network, use the services of an official and reliable Internet provider.
• Use licensed software to filter and monitor device security.
• Define rules for where and how technology can be used by different participants in the educational process.
• Designate a dedicated coordinator and make records of online security incidents.
• Train educators to protect personal data online.
• Provide security training for students.
• Take into account the potential impact of technology on the psyche of students.”

Educational institutions should inform students and parents what personal data will be processed when using one or another platform.

The Role of the Teacher

Teachers are just as vulnerable to cyberattacks, malware, viruses, and hacks as everyone else. First and foremost, they need to keep an eye on the security and reliability of the devices they use to deliver distance learning.

Furthermore, they need:

• Strong passwords to lock their devices.

• End sessions and log out of accounts when they are not using programs.

• Install and regularly update antivirus software.

  
  

They also need to separate personal and professional communications when using the Internet. To do this, they need to create at least two accounts from which they will communicate. They should also vow to keep personal and professional communication separate in their designated accounts.

Tips for Students and Parents

Protecting personal data in distance learning is primarily a collaborative effort between parents, students, and teachers.

For parents and students, the International Telecommunication Union offers the following advice:

• “Communicate with the children, ask what they like to browse online.
• Determine what technology, devices, and online services are used in the home.
• Keep an eye on antivirus updates on all devices, and set up the necessary filters in the software.
• As a family, agree on the use of the Internet and personal devices, including individual sites, search engines, and content.
• Explain to children that before posting pictures or videos online, they must first ask the permission of the people pictured there.
• Explain that they can’t share passwords and login information to private accounts, even with their closest friends.
• Children should know how to delete a profile or instantly change their information if something happens.”

Ultimately, reality dictates a necessity for secure practices, especially where young minds are concerned. It’s imperative to both educate and put into practice cybersecurity practices.