A digital identity is the footprint that remains every time an individual utilises online resources. Techopedia (2019) defines it as a collection of digital characteristics or data such as usernames, passwords, email addresses, online search activity or purchasing history. This collection combines to produce a digital identity. Digital security is mainly concerned with maintaining the integrity of this identity.
Davis (2014) has suggested that implementing the “9 key P’s of cyber security” with students is a useful way to ensure their digital identity is protected. Beginning with a strong password that is never shared and is not easily guessed is the first step. Ensuring they protect private information is the second. Next, personal information such as name, birthday and address etc are never shared. Students need to understand how the concept of property, as it relates to copyright and plagiarism works, and they need to understand how to ask for permission to use someone else’s work. They need to understand how virus and malware protection works, and how to act in a professional manner online. They also need to decide how they want to present their personal brand online.
The Digital Transformation Agency is making it easier for Australians to develop a cohesive digital identity, especially in regards to government agencies such as Centerlink and Medicare. There are four key components to this program, including a set of rules and standards called the “Trusted Digital Identity Framework”, digital identity providers, the identity exchange which allows information to be passed between government agencies and digital identity providers and the digital services that make use of these digital identities (DTA, 2019).
In conclusion, digital security is a priority for everyone, especially in an increasingly digital world. Students need to be taught the basics of securing their digital identity so as to protect themselves and their identity online. If students are taught these skills early in their education, effective and safe users of technology will develop.
Here is a useful resource for explaining cyber security to younger children.
A useful resource for explaining online security to older children can be found here.
References
Davis, V. (2014). Reinventing Writing. Taylor and Francis.
Digital identity. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.dta.gov.au/our-projects/digital-identity
DTA. (2019). Digital identity. Retrieved from https://www.dta.gov.au/our-projects/digital-identity
GDST. (2019). Live My Digital for students: Security & Privacy [Video]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvRE0RUFpBI
National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children. (2019). NetSmartz Presents: A Cyber Security Lesson for Kids! [Video]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSVONPRdSKA
Techopedia. (2019). What is a Digital Identity? – Definition from Techopedia. Retrieved from https://www.techopedia.com/definition/23915/digital-identity
Teaching and Learning in The Digital World 