Return to School Means Increased Online Security Threats

Well, it's back to school time. That means pencils, pens, notebooks, new sneakers and jeans, backpacks and online security. Online security?

Yes, say experts. As kids go back to school, they also return to homework, Internet research, digital textbooks, new online apps and, as a result, increased vulnerability online (in addition to the increased vulnerability presented by kids and social media).

Cocoon, an online security service, has identified a number of online risks kids face when returning to the classroom. These include weak passwords and online tracking among the “Top Five” online hazards during the school year.

“The predators out there have certainly embraced new technology,” according to Marc Klaas, founder of the KlaasKids Foundation. “Parents and children need to be aware of online threats and protect themselves through education, tools and best practices. Cocoon's solutions offer an immediate chance to address some of those threats while protecting from marketers who might be unduly tracking our kids.”

Cocoon has posted its Top Five Back-to-School Internet Security Threats to help parents educate their children and avoid online threats, including:
1. Weak Passwords
2. Online Tracking
3. Malware
4. Mobile App Risks
5. Unsecured Wi-Fi

Cocoon provides a free service that protects people from being tracked and profiled, even from Facebook (News - Alert).

School computer image via Shutterstock.com

Cocoon says its service, which is fast and easy to set up, can also shield the family computers and peripheral devices from the harmful download of viruses and malware.

Stay alert, because nobody wants to start the school year with either the wrong sneakers or a virus-ridden computer.

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