Unit 6: Impacts of Computing

Write answers to the following short response questions.

Q1. List the importance of safely use of the internet today?

Ans: Using the internet safely is important to protect personal information from hackers and scams, avoid cyberbullying and harmful content, and prevent technology addiction. It helps maintain mental and emotional health, supports legal and responsible online behavior, and ensures a positive digital reputation. Safe internet use also promotes secure communication, learning, and social interaction in today’s digital world.

Q2. State four ways to protect personal information online?

Ans: The Following are four ways to protect personal information online:

Antivirus and Antimalware Software:

Install reputable antivirus and antimalware software to regularly scan and protect the device from known threats. Keep these programs up to date to defend against new threats.

Operating System Updates:

Regularly update the operating system and software applications. Updates often include security areas that address weaknesses that hackers can exploit.

Password Management:

Use strong, unique passwords for each account and employ a password manager to store and manage them securely. Two-factor authentication (2FA) should also be enabled wherever possible.

Data Backup:

Regularly back up your important data to an external device or cloud storage service. In the event of data loss due to malware or hardware failure, you can restore your information.

Q3. Mention three benefits of cloud computing?

Ans: Here are the three broad benefits of cloud computing:

Cost-effective: Cloud computing reduces the need to buy and maintain expensive hardware, as services are provided over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Accessible from anywhere: Cloud services can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, making remote work and collaboration easier and more efficient.

Efficiency: Enterprise users can get applications to market quickly without worrying about underlying infrastructure costs or maintenance.

Q4. Why is cybersecurity essential in today’s digital era?

Ans: Cybersecurity is crucial for protecting privacy and information security in our digital era. As technology advances and systems become more interconnected, the amount of data exchanged online grows rapidly, posing significant challenges for privacy and security. Without strong cybersecurity measures, personal data like financial records and medical histories are at risk.

In conclusion, by prioritizing cybersecurity measures, we can protect sensitive data and maintain trust in our digital world.

Q5. Name three common types of cybercrimes.

Ans: Cybercrimes include hacking, identity theft, fraud, data breaches, cyberbullying, online harassment, stealing intellectual property, and cyber terrorism. Examples are breaking into computer systems, phishing scams, and malware attacks on websites.

Q6. What would you do if your friend faced cyberbullying?

Ans: If my friend was being cyberbullied, I would stay by their side and remind them it’s not their fault. I would advise them to stay calm and not reply to the bully. Then, I would help them save the messages or screenshots as evidence and encourage them to report it to a trusted adult, teacher, or the platform where it happened. Finally, I would suggest they block the bully and adjust their privacy settings to stay safe online.

Write answers to the following extended response questions.

Q1. What are the impacts of cyberbullying and online harassment, and what strategies can be implemented to prevent them?

Ans: impacts of cyberbullying

Psychological Effects:

Victims often experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and even suicidal thoughts. The constant fear and humiliation can have long-lasting psychological consequences.

Academic and Professional Impact:

Cyberbullying can make it hard for someone to focus on school or work, causing their performance to drop. It can also damage their professional reputation and future job opportunities.

Social Isolation:

Victims may stop joining social activities and feel alone. They might lose trust in others and find it hard to make new friends or relationships.

Physical Health:

The stress from online harassment can lead to physical health problems, such as headaches, sleep disturbances, and stomach issues.

Consequences of Cyberbullying:

Cyberbullying and harassment can have serious effects on a person. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Victims might struggle to focus on school or work, and their performance may suffer. They may feel alone, lose confidence, and have trouble trusting others or making new friends. In some cases, it can even harm their reputation and future job opportunities. Overall, it can deeply hurt both their mental health and social life.

Strategies to Prevent Cyberbullying/Harassment:

Education and Awareness:

Promote digital literacy and raise awareness about the consequences of cyberbullying among both children and adults. Teach responsible online behavior and empathy.

Parental Involvement:

Parents should be actively involved in their children’s online activities. Setting rules and monitoring their internet usage.

School and Workplace Policies:

Schools and workplaces should have clear anti-cyberbullying policies in place. These policies should outline consequences for criminals and provide support for victims.

Reporting Mechanisms:

Establish anonymous reporting systems for victims and witnesses to report cyberbullying incidents. Ensure that reports are taken seriously and acted upon promptly.

Social Media Regulation:

Encourage social media platforms to implement stricter policies against Cyberbullying and harassment. Platforms should swiftly remove harmful content and ban repeat lawbreakers.

Q2. Describe the various threats that cybersecurity measures aim to defend against.

Ans: Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and other malicious activities. It involves implementing a range of technologies, processes, and practices to safeguard ‘digital assets and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. Cybersecurity measures aim to defend against various threats, including malware, phishing scams, ransomware, and insider threats, among others. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, individuals, organizations, and governments can mitigate risks, prevent data breaches, and preserve trust in the digital ecosystem.

Q3. Explain the role of cybercrime laws in addressing illegal activities conducted through digital tools.

Cybercrimes laws

Cybercrime laws are rules made to stop illegal activities using computers or digital tools. They explain what cybercrimes are and set punishments for those who commit them. They also guide police on how to catch and punish cybercriminals. Cybercrimes include hacking, identity theft, fraud, data breaches, cyberbullying, online harassment, stealing intellectual property, and cyber terrorism. Examples are breaking into computer systems, phishing scams, malware attacks on websites.

Common methods of reporting cybercrimes

Law Enforcement Agencies:

Reporting Cybercrime Contacting local police departments or national law enforcement agencies to report cybercrimes. Many countries have specialized cybercrime units or task forces dedicated to investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes.

Government Agencies:

Reporting cybercrimes to government agencies responsible for cybersecurity and digital crimes. These agencies often have dedicated hotlines, online reporting portals, or email addresses where individuals can report incidents and seek assistance.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs):

Informing ISPs about cybercrimes, especially if the incidents involve illegal activities conducted through their networks or services. ISPs may take action against malicious users or provide assistance in reporting incidents to relevant authorities.

Financial Institutions:

Notifying banks or financial institutions if cybercrimes involve unauthorized access to accounts, fraudulent transactions, or other financial crimes. Financial institutions often have procedures in place to investigate and address such incidents.

Online Reporting Portals:

Report cybercrimes using online portals set up by government agencies, law enforcement, or cybersecurity organizations. These platforms allow to report crimes anonymously or ask for help with cyber threats. By using these reporting methods, people and organizations help detect, investigate, and prosecute cybercrimes. This effort helps fight cyber threats and improve cybersecurity

Q4. Analyze the cultural impact of computing technologies. How do these technologies facilitate global connectivity and cultural exchange?

Ans: The Environmental, Cultural and Human Impact of Computing and Assistive Technologies:

Computing and assistive technologies affect the environment, culture, and people in many ways. They can improve lives by making tasks easier, especially for those with disabilities. However, producing and using these technologies can impact the environment due to energy use and electronic waste. They also influence cultures by changing how we communicate, learn, and work.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of computing and assistive technologies includes high energy use and electronic waste. Devices like computers and data centres need a lot of electricity, which can lead to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. As technology advances, devices are often quickly replaced, creating electronic waste (e-waste) with harmful materials that can harm the environment if not safely recycled. Efforts are being made to reduce these impacts, but challenges remain

Cultural Impact

The cultural impact of computing and assistive technologies is seen in how they change the way people interact, learn, and work. These technologies make it easier to connect across distances, share information, and access educational resources. They also help people with disabilities participate more fully in society. However, they can also lead to less face-to-face communication and may create a digital divide. This gap can make cultural and economic differences.

Human Impact

The human impact of computing and assistive technologies is both positive and challenging. These technologies make tasks easier, especially for people with disabilities, helping them to communicate, learn, and work better. However, using technology too much can cause problems like addiction, stress, and less physical activity. Also, technology is always changing, which can lead to job changes and challenges in learning new tools.

Q5. Examine the effects of the digital divide on access to information. How does this divide affect education, employment, and healthcare?

Ans: Digital Divide

The digital divide means some people or groups have less access to technology, like the internet, compared to others. This gap can show up in different ways and affect individuals, groups, or even whole areas. It is a big deal because it can cause problems in society, the economy, and politics.

Analyze the impacts of the digital divide on access to critical information:

The digital divide limits access to critical information, especially for those without reliable internet, devices, or digital skills. People in low-income, rural, or underserved areas often miss out on essential services like online education, healthcare, and job opportunities. This divide worsens social inequalities, leaving some groups without important resources or timely information. Bridging the digital divide can improve equity, giving everyone a fair chance to connect, learn, and grow.

Access Divide

Infrastructure: One aspect of the digital divide is access to the physical infrastructure. The infrastructure required for digital connectivity, including broadband internet, computers, and mobile devices. Rural or remote areas often have limited or no access to high-speed internet, creating an urban- rural divide.

Affordability: Even when infrastructure is available, cost can be a barrier. Internet service, computers, and smartphones can be expensive for low-income individuals and families, making them inaccessible.

Usage Divide

Digital Literacy: Just having access to technology is not enough. People also need to know how to use it well. Some, especially older people, might not have the skills to use digital tools and the internet properly.

Relevance of Content: Some people can use the internet, but they might not see it as important for their everyday life. This could be because there is not much content available in their language or about things that matter to them.

Inequitable Access to Information

When some people do not have the same 3 access to information or technologies as others, it can really affect their lives. Imagine if you could not find out important things or learn new stuff because you did not have the same access to books or the internet as other people. It might make it harder to do well in school or find a good job. Having fair access to information is really important for everyone to have the same opportunities.

Select the best answer for the following MCQs.

1. _________ is a key reason for being careful and responsible online?

a) To save money

b) To avoid technology addiction and protect personal information

c) To become more popular

d) To learn new skills

2. Spending too much time online be harmful for?

a) Mental health and productivity

b) Physical fitness and diet

c) Shopping habits

d) Travel plans

3. Which of the following is NOT a way to protect personal information online?

a) Using strong passwords

b) Being alert for scams

c) Sharing your passwords with friends

d) Keeping privacy settings updated

4. Technology addiction is well described by

a) Using technology occasionally

b) Excessive use of digital devices

c) Avoiding all forms of technology

d) Only using technology for work purposes

5. What is a common result of excessive screen time?

a) Enhanced social skills

b) Social isolation and loneliness

c) Improved academic performance

d) Increased physical activity

6. Which of the following is a way to reduce technology addiction?

a) Increasing online gaming hours

b) Practicing mindful use of technology

c) Ignoring signs of addiction

d) Sharing personal information online

7. Select one benefit of using the internet for good purposes?

a) Increasing online fraud

b) Access to educational resources

c) Spreading misinformation

d) Cyberbullying

8. __________of the following is a positive use of the internet?

a) Cybercrime

b) Online harassment

c) Supporting social meeting

d) Distributing illegal content

9. _____________ is a way to protect your device from online threats?

a) Avoid using antivirus software

b) Ignore software updates

c) Use biometric authentication

d) Share passwords freely

10. Which method is a hardware method to protect devices?

a) Biometric authentication

b) Secure boot  

c) Firewalls

d) All

11. What is a public cloud?

a) A cloud environment used by one organization

b) A cloud service offered to the general public by a third -party provider

c) A private network for personal use

d) A secure boot process for devices

12. ____is the primary goal of cybersecurity?

a) To increase internet speed

b) To protect computer systems and networks

c) To develop new software applications

d) To create more social media platforms

13. Which of the following is an example of a legal online activity?

a) Hacking into a network to steal information

b) Tricking people through phishing scams

c) Developing a new mobile app

d) Deploying malware to disrupt systems

14. Why is cybersecurity essential in the digital era?

a) It helps in faster data transmission

b) It reduces the need for technical support.

c) It decreases the cost of internet services

d) It ensures that personal data is protected from malicious actors

15. Role of students which can minimizing the digital divide?

a) Developing new gaming applications

b) Providing technology training and support to those who need it

c) Reducing the prices of digital devices

d) Creating more social media accounts