Society & Computers PowerPoint

ALMOST EVERYONE! Who uses computers? Even if someone does not own a single electronic device, they are using technology indirectly in some other way. For example, when they go grocery shopping the clerk is using a computer when they check out. When they go to a bank to deposit or withdraw money, the tellers are using a computer. When they pay their utility bills, the utility company is recording their payment on a computer. When they use a product, odds are the business has used a computer to create, produce, or ship the product. COMPUTERS ARE EVERYWHERE AND PEOPLE USE THEM INDIRECTLY ALL THE TIME WITHOUT REALIZING IT!

What are computers used for? The list of things computers are used for is too exhaustive to list. But here are a few uses.

When are computers used? 24 hours a day 7 days a week Non-Stop

Where can you find computers being used? PRACTICALLY EVERYWHERE INCLUDING: Science Labs Medical Research Facilities Schools Banks Public Safety Facilities, including police and fire stations Sports Arenas Government Agencies New York Stock Exchange Airlines Military Facilities Grocery Stores Insurance Companies Book Publishing Companies Space Exploration Homes (for personal use)

Why are computers used so much? Computers are used so much because they are fast, accurate, and convenient. They make tasks easier to complete.

What are the risks of computer use? There are many risks involved in using a computer. A few of the risks include: Loss of data Viruses/Malware Hacking Identity Theft Accessing Inappropriate Content Loss of Privacy Health Issues including repetitive motion injuries, eye strain, lack of activity

How can the risks be minimized? A computer user can do some things to help prevent some of the risks of using a computer. The following list includes suggestions to help minimize the risks. To prevent loss of data, make sure to back up computer files regularly. Files can be backed up on the cloud, on an external hard drive, on a flash drive, etc. Ideally, the backed-up files should be stored in another location in case of fire, flood, etc. To prevent viruses/malware, make sure to use virus protection software and keep the software up-to-date. You can adjust the settings to automatically update the definitions and scan regularly so you don’t have to remember to do it. New viruses and malware are released daily so updating the definitions and scanning regularly is important. This will keep your machine safer. Also, make sure to only download material from trusted web sites and never open any email or attachment from someone you do not know.

How can the risks be minimized? (cont.) To prevent hackers from accessing your machine, make sure to use a firewall. A firewall provides a barrier from information going from one network to another. Firewalls make it harder for someone to access the data on your machine unless they have permission. To prevent identity theft, make sure to not post personal information online. If you are going to post personal information, like to make online purchase, make sure you do so on a site that is secure and encrypts the data. You can tell if a site is secure by looking for the lock at the top of the screen.

How can the risks be minimized? (cont.) To prevent accessing inappropriate content, use parental controls and filters. Also, if you come across anything inappropriate, close the Internet and tell an adult. To prevent loss of privacy, make sure you are careful about what you post online. Once you post anything online, anyone has access to it. Pictures can be saved and reposted, emails can be forwarded, and anyone can post a picture or video clip of you online without your knowledge. Be smart and be careful! Some of your personal data like medical records, credit card information, etc. are stored on company computers around the world. Make sure you purchase items through trusted companies that have a good record of protecting data and who will provide help if your data is compromised.

How can the risks be minimized? (cont.) To prevent health issues make sure to set up an ergonomic workspace. Look at the picture below for tips. Also, remember to always have good lighting in your workspace. http://purechiroforyou.com/2014/06/02/ergonomics/

A few other tips When you use the Internet, many sites put cookies on your machine. Cookies are files that are placed on your machine that store information about where you have been and your preferences. Web sites use these cookies to provide ads and improve your experience the next time you visit that site. You can disable cookies or delete cookies if you want. Cookies put your privacy at risk but most sites will not run if cookies are disabled. Make sure to regularly update programs. Most software companies fix problems with their software and release updates. The updates will help your software run better and will keep your machine more up-to-date and protected. Your operating system software on your computer will also need updated occasionally. Operating systems can have flaws as well, some of which provide a security risk. The updates address security issues and functionality issues. You can choose to set up your device to update automatically. This will help keep your machine protected.

Computers are great, just be smart about how you use them!