A few tips for a tech-driven world - #lakewoodnews

Teenagers are more digitally connected than ever: Three-quarters own or have access to a smartphone, 24 percent go online almost constantly, and 92 percent go online daily, Pew Research Center reports.The digital world is used for a number of activities -- from building relationships to accessing schoolwork to online shopping.But it can also be a vulnerable space for teenagers."You have to think about what information kids have access to," said Jackie Burhans, managing partner of CMIT Solutions of Denver Tech Center, which specializes in information technology. "They still need to be aware of some of the dangers and risks of using technology."Burhans and her husband, James Howald, also a managing partner of CMIT Solutions, have extensive experience with internet technology. The duo helps clients recover files, prevent malware and protect servers.They also have a son in high school."When your dealing with adults, it's slightly different than when you're dealing with kids," Burhans said, "but it's all about security."As the school year kicks off, the couple has a few tips for parents and teens immersed in the world of technology.Tips for cyberspaceIf a hacker gets ahold of an internet user's credit card number or banking information, it can be reversed and oftentimes resolved, Howald said.That's not the case with cyberbullying."The area in technology where I see a lasting, permanent impact on kids is when they get into a cyberbullying situation on social media," he said. "Unfortunately, there isn't a straightforward way to fix this."Burhans and Howald recommend that parents have an open discussion with teens on what social media sites are active.Some are mainstream, such as Facebook and Instagram. But others are new to the digital sphere, such as Whisper, YikYak and Afterschool -- three apps that allow anonymous posting.Anonymous apps are positive in that they let users express themselves, but they are often filled with inappropriate content and can encourage bullying, according to Common Sense Media, a website that provides information on media and technology.If a teenager is being bullied in cyberspace, he or she should keep a record of every detail and talk to an adult, said Douglas County Deputy Jason Blanchard.Blanchard, who also does community outreach, said teenagers know social media sites better than any other generation."I'm not going to say that one is better or worse than the other," he said. "Every single one needs to be approached with caution because you can't guarantee anyone's identity."Tips for surfing the web"Think before you click the link" is a term Burhans uses at work and at home.An internet user should always consider where an online link is redirecting him or her to avoid scams or phishing -- fraud that involves stealing personal information by posing as a legitimate company.Anti-malware software adds protection by blocking spam, viruses and popup pages on a laptop or desktop.The couple also advises teens to be mindful when online shopping. They say stick to nationally known online vendors, such as Amazon."Teenagers on a budget may find discounted retail on an unknown site," Burhans said. "They might not receive the product but then someone has their credit card info."Tips for tech devicesBurhans caught herself browsing Amazon when she had other priorities, so she downloaded an extension that prevents access to distracting websites during work hours. An extension is an add-on program that modifies or enhances the Chrome web browser."I actually learned it from my son," Burhans said. "It's handy when I need to focus."There are several tweaks in the tech world that can benefit users of all ages. StayFocusd is an extension that restricts the amount of time a user spends on certain websites. The f.lux extension changes the computer's display color to adapt to the time of day. Web Timer is an extension that tracks web activity and presents the data to the user in a pie chart.Thousands of extensions serve different purposes, from parental controls to work productivity to online protection.Common Sense Media recommends that parents explore online tools -- such as extensions -- with their kids."Learning how to use technology appropriately and discovering how to make it work for your needs are key to getting the best out of technology -- while minimizing risks," the site says.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/A-few-tips-for-a-tech-driven-world,234857