Tech

Free Online Courses To Learn About Online Privacy and Cybersecurity

Technology is advancing rapidly, and while it offers convenience to people by making lives easier for them, it also raises concerns regarding the user’s online privacy. We are constantly sharing sensitive data over the internet for one reason or another, and organizations are now also choosing to work remotely to achieve greater efficiency. Gone are the days when you had to commute to work or shop whenever you wanted to buy something. All of this can now be done from the comfort of your home.

But everything comes with a price; while the digital era has made things convenient for people and offers many benefits to live a comfortable life, we cannot forget about hackers and cybercriminals looming in the background, just waiting for the right opportunity to steal people’s confidential and sensitive data for fraudulent purposes.

With the advancement of technology, cybercriminals and hackers have also become more competent when stealing users’ confidential data. They have also gotten one step ahead at compromising the user’s data. All of this can be avoided if companies and individuals implement effective cybersecurity practices and are made aware of the importance of online privacy and why it is essential to protect their data.

However, some individuals aren’t tech-savvy and may need help knowing where to start learning Cybersecurity and what it is. They may also want to be more knowledgeable about cybersecurity practices so that they can begin implementing them. You’ve come to the right place if you’re also one of those people.

This guide will discuss four free online courses you can enroll in and start learning today. Whether you’re looking to start a career in Cybersecurity or want to learn Cybersecurity to enhance your privacy and security, these free online courses are the best place to start and the bonus. You don’t have to break the bank. So, if you’re ready, let’s get started.

What is CyberSecurity?

Cybersecurity is a critical field that safeguards digital systems, networks, and data from various threats, vulnerabilities, and unauthorized access. In an increasingly digital world, where information and technology are integral to our daily lives, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated.

Why Cybersecurity & Online Privacy Is Important

Cybersecurity is a necessity in the digital era. With Cyberattacks and online privacy threats on the rise, individuals and organizations need to be on guard to protect their confidential and sensitive data from getting into the wrong hands. Here’s why Cybersecurity and Online Privacy matters:

1) To Protect Personal Information

Online privacy ensures that confidential data, such as financial data, medical records, and personal communications, are inaccessible to unauthorized individuals. It prevents malicious actors from exploiting user’s data. Without Cybersecurity, sensitive data can easily be misused for financial fraud, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.

2) To Prevent Data Breaches

Cybersecurity measures also enable organizations to protect their data from data breaches. Data breaches can have severe consequences for organizations, including financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal liabilities. Organizations must protect sensitive data of their employees and customers to establish trust with both parties.

3) To Prevent Financial Fraud

Many cybercrimes are carried out to commit financial fraud. Cybersecurity measures aim to protect an individual’s financial assets and ensure the financial system’s stability. It can also help prevent online banking scams, investment scams, and credit card fraud.

4) Cyber Attacks As A Global Issue

Cybercrimes aren’t strictly limited to your location or have geographical restrictions. It is happening to people from all across the globe, and cybercriminals are targeting criminals worldwide. Therefore, it is the need of the hour for international cooperation to make efforts to enhance Cybersecurity, as it is essential to address global cyber threats effectively.

5) Prevention of Identity Theft

Identity theft is a pervasive and insidious cybercrime that can have devastating consequences for individuals. It occurs when malicious actors gain access to personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or credit card information, to impersonate the victim for financial gain or fraudulent activities.

6) Protection of Intellectual Property

Intellectual property (IP) encompasses creations of the mind, including inventions, literary and artistic works, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. Protecting intellectual property is vital for individuals and businesses, as it ensures that the creators or owners can benefit from their innovations and creations.

FREE Online Courses That You Can Start Doing Today

Your action plan to implement Cybersecurity measures starts with gaining awareness about it and learning the basics to help you get started. Here are some free online courses that will prove helpful on your journey to learning Cybersecurity:

1) Introduction To Cybersecurity by Great Learning

Great Learning has a comprehensive free online course equips you with the basics of secure online behavior and protecting yourself against cyberattacks. The course is designed to be hands-on and engaging, with practical projects and case studies to deepen your understanding of how Cybersecurity works in the real world and how to apply it to enhance your security.

The course is beginner-friendly and self-paced, so you can start enrolling and get started today. You will also get a completion certificate to stand out in your network. You can expect to learn the Key Concepts Of Cybersecurity, Popular Attacks like Ransomware, BotNet Attacks, Phishing Attacks, an Introduction To Cryptography, and design a Security System.

2) Certificate In Cybersecurity by HSC (Oxford Home Study Center)

This course is for anyone looking to start a career in Cybersecurity or to safeguard their data. Oxford Home Study Center’s free course is packed with essential Cybersecurity knowledge and key industry insights. The course is created for jobseekers looking to get a headstart in the industry of Cybersecurity or anyone interested in enhancing their online security.

You can study at your own pace, and once you complete this free online course, you can move toward an advanced diploma program. Some key topics you’ll cover include User Tracking, Physical Protection of Data, Software Piracy, & Crimes related to IPRs, Cyber Terrorism, Phishing, and Computer Vandalism.

Once you complete the course topics, you must pass the required assignments and get the necessary marks to get certified. Once certified, you can boost your CV to apply for Cybersecurity jobs.

3) Introduction To Cyber Attacks From Coursera

Introduction To Cyber Attacks is a free course that is a part of the Introduction To Cybersecurity Speacialisation by NYU School of Global Public Health. It has four modules, and once you complete the course, you’ll learn new concepts from Industry Experts, develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects, and earn a shareable career certificate, which you can share on LinkedIn.

The primary skills you’ll learn from this course include Cybersecurity, Information Security (INFOSEC), Denial-Of-Service Attack (DOS), and Risk Assessment. The course also offers subtitles in different languages so that it is accessible to people from all across the globe.

4) Cyber Security Course for Beginners From Udemy

Udemy offers a free short course that teaches the security fundamentals for everyday life. This course introduces the basic concepts of Cybersecurity, how to protect themselves from online predators, and how to take precautionary measures to stay safe online. The course outline includes an introduction to Security, configuring Security Settings for Edge, Chrome, and Firefox, Identity Theft, Encryption, Sandboxing, how to have a safe online experience, and information on anti-virus software.

The course is for anyone who is just starting, homemakers, and anyone looking to start their journey in Cybersecurity. You must opt for the paid version to get a completion certificate. But the free course is jam-packed with valuable tips and insights, so if you want to learn basic knowledge, this course is an excellent place to start.

5) Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization by Stanford Online

Stanford Online offers an extensive Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals. This specialization includes multiple courses covering various aspects such as network security, cryptography, risk management, and cyber threats.

Aimed at beginners, it serves as an ideal starting point for those looking to explore the field of cybersecurity. The course content is delivered through video lectures, readings, and practical assignments, and upon completion, learners receive a certificate from Stanford University.

6) Introduction to IT Security by Cisco

Cisco Networking Academy offers an introductory course focusing on IT security. This course provides foundational insights into information security and cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of securing computer systems and networks. Topics covered include security threats, encryption, best practices, and securing network devices.

It’s an excellent choice for individuals interested in building fundamental IT security knowledge, especially those considering IT support or network administration careers. The course materials include online modules, videos, quizzes, and hands-on lab exercises.

7) Cybersecurity for Everyone by edX

The Cybersecurity for Everyone course, offered by the University of Adelaide on edX, aims to make cybersecurity accessible to individuals regardless of their technical background. It offers a user-friendly introduction to cybersecurity principles and practices.

Learners will explore essential cybersecurity concepts, threats, protection strategies, and topics like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and privacy. This course suits those with little to no cybersecurity knowledge and provides video lectures, interactive exercises, and self-assessment quizzes.

While learners can obtain a verified certificate upon completion for a fee, auditing the course is free, making it accessible to a wide audience interested in enhancing their digital security awareness.

8) Cybersecurity and Its Ten Domains by the University of Washington

“Cybersecurity and Its Ten Domains” is a comprehensive course offered by the University of Washington on Coursera. This course delves into the multifaceted world of cybersecurity, focusing on ten key domains.

It provides valuable insights into security governance, risk management, and incident response, helping learners understand the interconnected nature of cybersecurity practices.

The course is structured to give participants a holistic view of the field, making it suitable for individuals seeking a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity’s essential domains. By exploring these domains, learners can better comprehend the strategic and tactical aspects of safeguarding digital assets and networks.

9) Introduction to Cybersecurity by OpenLearn

The “Introduction to Cybersecurity” course, offered by The Open University on OpenLearn, is a foundational exploration of the core principles of cybersecurity. Geared towards beginners, it offers an accessible entry point into the world of digital security.

The course covers essential topics, including identifying cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and protective measures. By studying this course, participants will appreciate cybersecurity’s significance in today’s digital landscape.

OpenLearn’s user-friendly approach makes this course a valuable resource for individuals new to the subject and wishing to establish a solid foundation in cybersecurity fundamentals.

10) Security Awareness and Training (SANS Institute)

The Security Awareness and Training resources provided by the SANS Institute offer a diverse range of cybersecurity education materials and courses to enhance security awareness among individuals and organizations.

These resources cover various cybersecurity topics, including secure coding practices, threat intelligence, and best practices for protecting digital assets. SANS Institute is renowned for its expertise in the cybersecurity field, making its resources a valuable asset for individuals looking to stay informed about the latest threats and security measures.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced professional, these materials can help bolster your cybersecurity knowledge and readiness, ultimately contributing to a safer digital environment.

Wrapping Up Online Privacy

Suppose you’re looking to enhance your online privacy and don’t know where to start. In that case, these free and valuable courses will help you get started in taking actionable steps to improve your online privacy and safety. These courses are also helpful if you’re looking to kickstart your career in Cybersecurity, and these courses are just the boost you need on your CV to make an impact with recruiters. We wish you all the best on your learning journey.

Tech

US: A Judge Mandates that Google Allow Competing App Stores to Access Android

(VOR News) – The ruling is that Google, the greatest technology firm in the world, is required to make its Android smartphone operating system available to merchants that supply applications that are in direct rivalry with Google’s. This decision was reached by a judge in the United States of America.

The Android Play store, which is owned and operated by Google, was found to be an example of an illegal monopoly arrangement by a jury in the state of California on Monday. The finding was reached by a jury. Monday is the day that this decision was come to.

An earlier federal judge ruled Google’s search engine illegal.

This finding, which came after that decision, has forced the company to suffer yet another setback. As a result of the corporation having already encountered its initial obstacle, this decision has been established. This particular decision was made by the judge during the month of August, when the month was in progress.

In light of the fact that the decision was made, what exactly does it mean that the choice was accepted?

In accordance with the verdict, Google is obligated to make it possible for users to download Android app stores that are offered by third-party competitors. For a period of three years, the corporation is prohibited from imposing restrictions on the usage of payment mechanisms that are integrated into the application.

In addition, it is important to keep in mind that Google does not possess the right to impose restrictions on the utilization of ways to make payments online.

Additionally, the verdict makes it unlawful for Google to give money to manufacturers of smartphones in order to preinstall its app store. Smartphone manufacturers are prohibited from doing so.

Furthermore, it prevents Google from the possibility of sharing the revenue that is generated by the Play store with other companies that are in the industry of delivering mobile applications.

In addition to this, the court has mandated the establishment of a technical committee that will be made up of three different people chosen at random.

The committee will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the reforms and finding solutions to any disagreements that may occur as a consequence of the implementation of the reforms while they are being implemented. This task will fall under the committee’s purview so that it may fulfill its duties.

However, certain components were allowed to be put into action until July 1st, despite the fact that the judge’s statement suggested that the ruling would take effect on November 1st. The statement was the basis for the ruling, which ultimately became effective.

Particularly, I wanted to know what Google’s reaction would be.

There is a fact that Google does not adhere to this directive, which has been brought to their attention. This document argued that the alterations that the judge had ordered to be made would “cause a range of unintended consequences that will harm American consumers, developers, and device makers.”

The judge had ordered the modifications to be implemented. The alterations were to be carried out as indicated by the judge’s ruling. The judge made it clear that he expected these revisions to be carried out in accordance with his guidance.

The company’s regulatory affairs vice president, Lee-Anne Mulholland, provided the following statement: “We look forward to continuing to make our case on appeal, and we will continue to advocate for what is best for developers, device manufacturers, and the billions of Android users around the world.”

On average, over seventy percent of the total market for smartphones and other mobile devices is comprised of mobile devices that are powered by the Android operating system. Both smartphones and other small mobile devices are included in this category.

In the event that the Play app store continues to be shown on the home page and that other Google applications are pre-installed prior to the installation of the Android application, smartphone manufacturers are entitled to install the Android application at no cost at their discretion.

Additionally, the Android application can be installed on devices that are manufactured for smartphones.

SOURCE: DWN

Tech

WhatsApp Now Features a “Mention” Tool for Status Updates and Stories.

(VOR News) – Those who use WhatsApp now have the ability to mention other people in their stories or status updates as a consequence of a feature that was only recently enabled on the platform.

Previous to this point, this capability was not available. It wasn’t until quite recently that this capability became available to the public.

According to the information that was provided by the company, users now have the opportunity to tag close friends in their stories, and the person who is mentioned will have the option to go back and re-share an earlier version of that story. This information was provided by the company. The corporation was kind enough to reveal this information to us.

Because of a new feature that has been added to the WhatsApp app, users now have the opportunity to like individual stories and status updates.

This capability was previously unavailable to WhatsApp users.

A significant amount of progress has been made in this context. Alternative readers now have the chance to “like” a work, which is comparable to liking a post on Facebook. This feature was introduced in recent years. When compared to the past, this is a tremendous shift.

At one point in time, viewers were only permitted to observe the total number of views that a particular story had gotten. These restrictions were eliminated in later versions of the software.

Additionally, it is essential that the likes and reactions to a story be kept anonymous during the entire process. One of the factors that contributes to the general mystery that surrounds this characteristic is the fact that this is one of the elements.

The person who brought it to the attention of others is the only person who will be able to judge who enjoyed it and who did not care about it. These individuals will be able to make this determination.

A notification will be issued to the individual who was referenced earlier in the sentence and who was named in the story or status update that was discussed. A notification of this nature will be sent to the individual via WhatsApp.

This message will be sent to the user in question whenever that person makes a reference to another person while they are in the process of elaborating on a narrative or updating their status. You will receive a notification alerting you that you have been tagged in the narrative.

This notification will be delivered to the person who receives this message. In addition, students will be provided with the opportunity to re-share the tale for themselves.

It is important to note that if the names of individuals who have been referenced in a narrative or a status update are included in any of these, then the names of those individuals will not be accessible to any third party through any of these. In light of the fact that the identities of those individuals will be concealed from public disclosure, this is the condition that will be required.

While WhatsApp recently made the announcement that it will be incorporating this functionality, it is highly likely that not all users will have access to it at the same time.

This is despite the fact that WhatsApp recently made this announcement.

Despite the fact that WhatsApp has only recently made a public announcement that it will move forward with the deployment, this is the situation that has presented itself.

As soon as a short period of time has elapsed, access will be made available to each and every person on the entire world.

Additionally, WhatsApp has hinted that new functionalities might be introduced to the status and updates tab in the future months.

The purpose of these capabilities is to provide users with assistance in maintaining healthy connections with the individuals who play a vital role in their living experiences. This is done in order to give users with support in maintaining close relationships with the folks who are the subject of the inquiry.

It is with the purpose of supporting users in successfully keeping close ties with the individuals in question that this step is taken.

SOURCE: DN

Tech

Over The Planned “Link Tax” Bill, Google Threatens to Remove NZ News Links.

(VOR News) – Google has sent a strong message to the New Zealand government, threatening to stop boosting local news content should the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill become law.

The law, put up by the Labour government and backed by the coalition in power at the moment, mandates that digital companies such as Google pay back news organizations for links to their material.

News publishers, on the other hand, charge the tech giant with “corporate bullying.”

Google says this measure may have unanticipated effects.

Google New Zealand’s country director, Caroline Rainsford, voiced her worries that the law, which is being referred to as a “link tax,” is not doing enough to support the media industry in New Zealand right now.

She underlined that Google would have to make major adjustments if the previously mentioned law were to pass, including cutting off links to news articles from its Search, News, and Discover platforms and cutting off financial ties with regional publications.

According to Rainsford, similar legislation has been proposed and approved in other nations including Australia and Canada, but it has not been proven to be effective there and breaches the principles of the open web.

She drew attention to the fact that smaller media outlets will be most negatively impacted, which will limit their capacity to reach prospective audiences.

Google says its alternative options will protect smaller, local media from negative effects.

Conversely, it conveys apprehension regarding the possible fiscal obligations and vagueness of the legislation, which it feels generates an intolerable level of ambiguity for enterprises functioning within New Zealand.

The New Zealand News Publishers Association (NPA) has reacted to Google’s warnings by alleging that the internet behemoth is using coercive tactics.

They specifically contend that the need for regulation stems from the market distortion that Google and other tech giants have created, which has fueled their expansion into some of the most significant corporations in global history.

The legislation aims to create a more equal framework that media businesses can use to negotiate commercial relationships with technological platforms that profit from their content.

New Zealand Media Editors CEO Michael Boggs stated that he was in favor of the bill, citing the fact that Google now makes a substantial profit from material created by regional publications.

He also emphasized that the use of artificial intelligence by Google—which frequently makes references to news articles without giving credit to the original sources—highlights the significance of enacting legislation.

Paul Goldsmith, the Minister of Media and Communications, has stated that the government is now evaluating various viewpoints and is still in the consultation phase.

He stated that the government and Google have been having continuous talks and will keep up these ongoing discussions.

However, not all political parties accept the validity of the Act.

The ACT Party’s leader, David Seymour, has voiced his displeasure of the proposal, saying that Google is a game the government is “playing chicken” with. He threatened the smaller media companies, saying that they would suffer from worse search engine rankings if the internet giant followed through on its promises.

Seymour contended that it is not the government’s responsibility to shield companies from shifts in the market brought about by consumer preferences.

The things that have happened in other nations are similar to what has happened in New Zealand.

Google has agreements with a number of Australian media firms that are in compliance with its News Media Bargaining Code. These agreements contain provisions that permit an annual cancellation of these agreements.

Due to the government’s decision to exempt Google from the Online News Act, the company has committed to supporting news dissemination by contributing annually to the Canadian journalistic community.

The New Zealand measure is consistent with global approaches aimed at regulating the relationships that exist between technology corporations and media organizations.

It’s hard to say what will happen with the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill as the discussion goes on. Google and the New Zealand media landscape are preparing for what might be a protracted legal battle.

SOURCE: TET