Victims of internet scams and identity theft feature in the news daily. The scary thing is – it doesn’t just happen to ‘other people’. When you choose to study online you open yourself up to a wonderful new world of topics, discussions and people with something in common. However there is also the chance you can inadvertently breach your own privacy or safety.
So, how do you stay safe while studying online?
eCampus NZ was designed to create an online learning platform where students feel supported and connected online. The great thing about our online forum is you can join conversations about the courses you are studying with other students working on the same assignments as you. This adds points of views from diverse backgrounds and locations around New Zealand, from across a wide range of ages and experiences which all helps to enrich your own study experience.
While eCampus NZ encourages students to network, we also take the privacy, safety and wellbeing of our students very seriously.
Here are some sensible tips for safe studying online…
- All our forums and chat are moderated and any inappropriate messages will be deleted
- If you feel uncomfortable about any online interaction – let your course facilitator know as soon as possible
- Keep your personal details safe. Don’t share any information you don’t want public – like your address or telephone number
- It’s fine to meet up with another student in ‘real life’. But take some common sense precautions… get to know the individual better first – ask for their phone number and arrange to meet over the phone. If you decide to meet, make it a public place, like a library, where other people are around. Let someone know where you will be and what time you will be back.
But please don’t let these tips worry you. It’s really important to not be nervous and get involved in our online forum and chat – as you will gain so much from it!
eCampus NZ is also on Facebook and LinkedIn to share feedback, ask questions and gain useful information.