Bloggers in Nakuru learn about Securing their Data Online

 

In a world where we spend a majority of our time online, being safe becomes important. We cannot afford to leave online footprints which can be used against us especially as bloggers and journalists as well as Social Media enthusiasts.

A workshop held in Nakuru recently was propelled towards informing residents, especially bloggers, on how to protect themselves online.

Any content posted online that may contravene on any laws can be used to charge an individual. However, we should note that,  for something to be a crime it must be very clear and well defined under an Act in the Kenyan law. We should, therefore, watch how we conduct ourselves on online platforms. Aside from this, every Kenyan should be aware of the laws that govern Freedom of Speech and Expression as well as the Digital rights in the country. In the case one is caught, everyone has a right to a fair trial.

Fake News has become the norm and has led to the spread of propaganda in the nation. However, there are ways of detecting such alternative news and propaganda which bloggers and journalists should be well aware of.

We sometimes forget to log off from public computers after we are done with our activities online. This can lead bloggers and journalists in trouble when information is leaked from their on accounts to other people. This may become a problem in cases where one is handling sensitive content. When someone has your database information whether online or offline, it infringes on your human rights as well.

Participants at the workshop were well educated on how to keep their data safe online. This would ensure that they avoid being victims of cyber bullyin attacks or even fraudalant activities as everyone has the right to privacy online. This are cases that have increased with individuals seeking to harm online users and some cases even targetting their family members. Participants were also cautioned on using pictures of their children online or even displaying images that would indicate their place of residence on an online platform.

The use of 2-factor authentication/verification was also heightened. This is very crucial to prevent anyone from accessing your emails and even have access to your WhatsApp or Telegram channels. This step will notify you when someone, other than yourself, accesses your online platforms. The use of one password for all your online platforms was also discouraged as hackers can easily leak information from your device.

Backing up data was also discussed. These data should however not be kept together with the original data. Imagine a situation where you carry both your back up data device together with the original data device and have both of them stolen. You will end up loosing all your data which may get into malicious hands.

With all the security measures available to protect ourselves from unwanted online trauma, we should always be conscious at all times. Not only being conscious as we conduct our activities online but even when we are offline. This entails, being conscious on whom we tell personal information. From the security guard at an office building where you leave your ID or phone number, to even an acquaintance we meet on the street. We should be extra careful on what we choose to disclose before it is disclosed to everyone online.