Being a responsible net citizen is the same as using technology properly, and using the internet safely and carefully
The concept of “net citizens is increasingly recognized as the intensity of communication, trade flows, and digital information increases. For this reason, responsible internet use practices are increasingly needed. Understanding and practicing things related to the concept of net citizen responsibility will help you respect, educate, and protect yourself and others online.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Respecting Yourself and Others in Cyberspace
Step 1. Use good etiquette when using the internet
Practice good digital etiquette by following proper standards when surfing the web. Show good manners when using the internet and encourage yourself to teach and discuss digital etiquette with others, either online or in person. Most importantly: Be polite! Make sure you actively show a positive self-image. Good digital etiquette also requires that you:
- Reduce the use of sarcasm. Since facial expressions and body language cannot be conveyed through text, sarcastic comments can easily be viewed as negative.
- Don't exaggerate disagreements. Do not use abusive, insulting, or aggressive language.
- Do not participate in online bullying activities. Report if you see bullying online. Support the target of bullying and acknowledge that the user who is bullying is exhibiting inappropriate behavior.
Step 2. Have a good exchange of information
Digital communication or exchange of information and correspondence through electronic objects has become the main means of communication between one individual and another. However, be careful what you share online. Don't share personal information online with unknown people through untrusted websites. Understand that some forms of communication are best in person. Pay attention to the following points:
- Don't share vacation plans, income amounts, and anything else that could harm yourself or others.
- Don't share your heart on work or personal relationships. Have an emotional or important private conversation with the person concerned.
Step 3. Follow applicable laws
There are specific rights and restrictions regarding the use of digital technology. Understand that you are responsible for your own behavior online. Educate yourself about copyright and policies on the use of digital works if you are not sure about the legality of a work that you want to take from the internet. Be careful when using peer-to-peer (P2P) services. Pay attention to the following specifics:
- Don't steal someone's money, intellectual property or identity.
- Don't damage other people's work, identity, or online property.
- Do not download music or movies that are shared illegally.
- Don't create malicious malware, programs or websites.
- Don't spam.
Method 2 of 3: Advocating for Netizens Awareness
Step 1. Advocacy on the use of new technology
Work to improve digital literacy by learning and teaching others about the availability and use of new technologies. Recognize that new technologies are emerging with increasing frequency. A responsible netizen needs to know how to use the technology properly. Also, understand that today's teachers need ongoing practice to use technology well in the classroom. Make sure children and other students at schools near your home have good digital literacy by calling and asking about the school's efforts to improve student digital literacy. There are several curricula and lesson plans available online to help guide educators.
The New York City Department of Education, United States, has developed a comprehensive guide entitled “Net Citizens in the Digital Age” which includes lesson plans for elementary through high school (K-12) levels
Step 2. Ensure availability of digital access
Digital access refers to the level of a person's ability to participate in cyberspace. Be friendly when interacting with others online. There are also more active ways to advocate for increased digital access for everyone, regardless of their social and economic status, ability and physical location. One of the important policies today is to provide affordable access for all students. There are many organizations working towards this goal. Here are some other ways to help improve digital access:
- Ask local politicians to prioritize public access to the internet, as well as the availability of computers that can be used by the public. Support the politicians and civil society organizations that support these goals.
- Donate your unused computer equipment to a local library or school so that others can use it.
- Volunteer working with organizations that aim to increase digital access.
Step 3. Know your rights and obligations and those of others
Digital rights and obligations serve to establish and maintain the freedoms that everyone can enjoy when using the internet. Note that rights always go hand in hand with obligations. Understand your rights and obligations in the locations and networks you use, then share this information with others if they behave inappropriately. Knowledge of this includes the degree of freedom of expression and freedom to access public websites. Respect everyone you interact with online and make sure your rights are not violated.
Contribute to a positive and civilized discussion of your rights and obligations as a net citizen to help define the correct use of new technologies as society evolves
Method 3 of 3: Protecting Yourself Online
Step 1. Maintain digital security
Take precautions through the use of computer equipment and online behavior to protect yourself and materials shared online. Be careful with information relating to your identity. These are some important steps to strengthen digital security:
- Install an antivirus on the device used to access the internet.
- Be careful when opening email attachments and clicking a link.
- Keep your data safe in multiple secure places at once, if you can.
- Use an anti-circuit device to protect the device from permanent damage, such as electric current in bad weather, etc.
Step 2. Pay attention to your health
Even if you don't think that sitting at a computer is harmful or unhealthy, your health and well-being is affected by a digital lifestyle. Understand the physical and psychological effects of the digital world. Protect yourself from these dangers, and encourage others to understand them too. Some of the risks arising from the intense use of computers and other devices are:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Eyestrain.
- Bad posture.
- Dependence on the internet.
- Recurrent stress syndrome.
Step 3. Trade digitally responsibly
Digital commerce represents the online buying and selling of goods or services. Consider the risks associated with this practice. Make safe and secure decisions before making online transactions. There are many goods and services online that are prohibited by law in some countries. Make sure the transactions you make are legal and legal.
