Week Thirteen of GECHS

This week was really simple and easy. We went over our new digital literacy lesson and worked on a few other things. Unfortunately, we didn't learn about any new web 2.0 tool.

Our new digital literacy component this week was scams and schemes. We had a class discussion on how important it is to keep private information private. If your information gets out into the public, it can lead to multiple problems that may take years to fix. One major issue in the United States is identity theft. The only way someone can steal your identity is if you give them the information they need.

Description: Thief
Date: January 25, 2007
Found at: flickrcc.net

However, they are also ways you can avoid identity theft. Here are five rules to follow to protect you from online scams: 

1. Avoid opening the message or email.
2. Don't click on any links or download any attachments; they might contain viruses or spyware.
3. Don't reply to the message.
4. Mark as "junk mail" or "spam" for your email provider, or report it to your social networking site.
5. If you are concerned about an account you have with a company, contact its customer service department by phone. Make sure you verify the company’s contact information elsewhere online first.

To guide us through our lesson we were given a list of words to define. We have already went over a few of the words in the past.

Scam- An attempt to trick someone, usually with the intention of stealing money or private information. 

Identity Theft- A type of crime in which your private information is stolen and used for criminal activity.

Vulnerable- In a position that makes it easier for you to be harmed or attacked. 

Phishing- When people send you phony emails, social media messages, texts, calls, or links to fake websites in order to hook you into giving out your personal and financial information.


Overall, this week was really laid back. I enjoyed not having that much work to complete. The only thing I had a problem with was my stems test.