Colleges are essentially miniature cities with their own set of problems. These issues may include privacy violations and high tech theft. There are concerns that could happen in university and other higher education institutions. Students should be properly prepared to embark in this new journey. It is important for them to try to become practical and safe. Students should be aware about vulnerability issues at college. As an example, colleges should have moderately protected networks so private information can be stored safely. Colleges often store our private information, but we should make sure that our data is protected by proper security capabilities.
There are different data that students need to submit to their colleges, such as name, home address, phone numbers, parent names, SAT scores and others. In fact, colleges may also require detailed parental information, such as social security numbers, tax information, income and others. Private information is stored in secure network and it is important that there’s no bad consequences that can happen due to this problem. There are personal questions that may not need to be answered, especially if they are not relevant to our education at the college. Privacy should be our biggest concern and we should make sure that we reduce risks.
Some colleges allow students to access the database through mobile devices and computers. It works like a cloud network where students are able to store files and documents. Unfortunately, many colleges use only standard security systems for the network, making them vulnerable to more advanced hacking techniques. In this situation, it is a good idea if students implement their own encryption system for crucial files, so data theft can be prevented. As an example, term paper can be stolen before it’s submitted, which could cause students lose their time and effort, if the paper is reused by other people. Plagiarism is a serious issue.
Colleges often store student records that are updated regularly. In any case, the database should be highly protected. Universities should have proper student-oriented networks that can be accessed by authorized members. Records stored could include financial aid status, ID numbers, grades and other college information. Database could be compromised due to student’s own mistakes. They may forget to log out from the database after using a public computer. Unprotected Wi-Fi hotspots could also be used by hackers to hijack transmission and steal important information.
Due to the increasing complexity of college-wide network, security issues may also increase. Universities should perform all the necessary steps so they can implement proper measures. In this case, students and staff will be properly protected. Universities should step up their efforts because security breaches could prove ro be expensive. Popular and major universities often become primary targets for hackers. Students should also be educated on how to properly use the college-wide network. As an example, when students step away from their computers, it is important that their information won’t be accessed by anyone. Students pay a lot of money to get top-notch information, so they should also get top-notch security protection.
