Cybertraps Podcast

We explore the risks arising from the use and misuse of digital devices and electronic communication tools. We interview experts in the fields of cybersafety, cybersecurity, privacy, parenting, and technology and share the wisdom of these experts with you!

Ghana Update and the Growing Problem of Deepfakes Cybertraps 153 04/02/2023

Ghana Update and the Growing Problem of Deepfakes Cybertraps 153 Update from Ghana - #2023–03–13_1100 Meeting with the Cybercrime Unit of the Ghana Police Service - #2023–03–14_1200 Visit to 5/6 classroom at Primus Hybrid School - #2023–03–19_1400 Pan-Africa webinar for parents - How can parents and carers monitor their children’s online activity without infringing on their privacy? - What are the long-term effects of excessive technology use on children’s mental and physical health? - How can parents and carers stay informed about new technology trends and potential risks? - What should parents and carers do if they suspect their child is being cyberbullied or harassed online? - How can parents and carers effectively communicate with their children about technology use without creating conflict or tension? - How can parents and carers address their own technology use and set a good example for their children? - What is the role of peer pressure and social media in shaping children’s online behavior, and how can parents and carers help children navigate these pressures? - How can technology be used to enhance learning and development for children, and what are some best practices for incorporating technology into education? - How can parents and carers help children build healthy relationships with their devices and encourage offline activities and hobbies? - What is the role of technology companies and platforms in promoting safe and responsible technology use, and how can parents and carers hold them accountable? - The Growing Problem of Deepfakes - News Item: New York students create a deepfake video of middle school principal saying racist things “https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2023/03/14/racist-deepfakes-carmel-tiktok/” - Details - Target of the malicious attack was George Fischer Middle School - In late January or early February, multiple videos were released on Tiktok, with a male voice laid over videos of Principal John Piscitella - The voiceovers contained racist statements and threats of violence - TikTok quickly took the videos down but not before they were seen by multiple students - Carmel Central School District sent out a letter on February 13, 2023, alerting parents to the videos and saying “that three high-schoolers had “used artificial intelligence to impersonate the staff” and made them appear to make “inappropriate comments” in videos.” - The school did not describe the videos, nor did it specifically mention the racist comments or threats of violence - Simultaneous, local police closed their investigation after determining that no crime had been committed - The District defended its response to angry parents, saying that “they were trying to balance disclosing sensitive information without generating panic” - But parents accused the District of minimizing the videos - The videos raise many issues, most controversial: - Racism - Student Privacy - The Use and Abuse of Technology (particularly AI) - Threats of Gun Violence - Disciplinary action was taken against three students but District refused to say what action was taken - Analysis - Schools need to be more transparent about the nature of incidents like these - We may need to consider the cost of student privacy - These were relatively crude deepfake videos; the technology exists now to make much more convincing videos - Additional Resources - #2023–03–09 Principal appears to spew racist threats in disturbing video — but it never actually happened “https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/principal-appears-to-spew-racist-threats-in-disturbing-video-%E2%80%94-but-it-never-actually-happened/ar-AA18qImu” - #2023–03–08 High Schoolers Made a Racist Deepfake of a Principal Threatening Black Students “https://www.vice.com/en/article/7kxzk9/school-principal-deepfake-racist-video” - #2023–03–02 TikTok videos threatening Black students have Carmel parents on edge, district promising change “https://www.lohud.com/story/news/education/2023/03/02/racist-tiktok-videos-threaten-black-kids-in-carmel-ny-worry-parents/69941181007/” - /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/26415345

Fred in Africa Cybertraps 152 03/17/2023

Corporate Media vs. Independent Media with Tony Brasunas Cybertraps 151 01/18/2023

GALE Forces with Dr. Glenn Lipson Cybertraps 150 01/17/2023

Keeping the Hawaiian Language with Felicia Villalobos Cybertraps 149 01/11/2023

How to Investigate Social Media with Brytton Songenfrei and Justin Darling Cybertraps 148 01/07/2023

Virtual Life vs Real Life with Cassie Trueblood Cybertraps 145 01/02/2023

Stop Educator Sexual Abuse Misconduct & Exploitation Cybertraps 147 12/23/2022

Investigating Your Own Teacher with Matt Drange Cybertraps 146 12/16/2022

Training Paraprofessionals with Jamie Boyd Cybertraps 144 11/29/2022

A Recap for the PPI Conference with Quinton "Q" Dale Cybertraps 143 11/26/2022

Someone Could Have Stepped in with Jenn Corry Cybertraps 142 11/25/2022

Working with Teachers Unions with Paul Stark Cybertraps 141 11/24/2022

Social Media, Halloween, and Teacher Costumes Cybertraps 140 10/18/2022

Social Media, Halloween, and Teacher Costumes Cybertraps 140 - Will your costume cost you your job? - Halloween will be celebrated on Monday, October 31, 2022. - - Prediction: By mid-November, at least one teacher will have been fired for an inappropriate costume - Great article on the history of Halloween at History.com - Celebration dates back roughly 2,000 years, when the Celts lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off ghosts. They called the celebration Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”) - “To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes.” - “In the late 1800s, there was a move in America to mold Halloween into a holiday more about community and neighborly get-togethers than about ghosts, pranks and witchcraft.” - “Parents were encouraged by newspapers and community leaders to take anything “frightening” or “grotesque” out of Halloween celebrations. Because of these efforts, Halloween lost most of its superstitious and religious overtones by the beginning of the twentieth century.” - “Between 1920 and 1950, the centuries-old practice of trick-or-treating was also revived. Trick-or-treating was a relatively inexpensive way for an entire community to share the Halloween celebration. In theory, families could also prevent tricks being played on them by providing the neighborhood children with small treats.” - “Thus, a new American tradition was born, and it has continued to grow. Today, Americans spend an estimated $6 billion annually on Halloween, making it the country’s second largest commercial holiday after Christmas.” - “One quarter of all the candy sold annually in the U.S. is purchased for Halloween.” - Halloween Is Increasingly Popular Among Adults – Fascinating article in The Conversation - Between 2005 and 2018, the number of adults celebrating Halloween rose from 50% to more than 70% - Halloween is particularly popular among younger adults (18–34), who spend 2x older adults on costumes - “Halloween celebrations have changed, too: less trick-or-treating and more parties and bar hopping. Today, alcohol is as important as candy to the Halloween economy.” - But why? “If Halloween has become more popular among adults, it’s because traditional markers of adulthood have become less clear and less attainable.” - “Halloween, with its emphasis on identity, horror and transgression, can tell us about who we want to be and what we fear becoming.” - “For example, urban legends about razor blades in apples in the 1970s reflected cultural anxieties about loss of community and fear of strangers.” - Fred – “Operation Goblin” - “More recently, debates about skimpy costumes tap into broader concerns about young girls growing up too quickly.” - “Traditional markers of adult responsibility and independence – family, career, home ownership – have either been delayed or abandoned altogether, by choice or necessity. Transitions to adulthood have become uncertain, drawn out and complicated.” - “So why might an emerging adult be drawn to Halloween? Most obviously, Halloween costumes let them experiment and explore self and identity. The possibilities are endless. Witch? Robot couple? Sexy Robot? Emoji? Banksy’s shredded art? Young adults I’ve spoken with often identify this as their favorite part of the holiday – the chance to be, at least for a night, whatever they wish to be.” - “And young adults don’t do it alone. Some have told me that they’ll test out different costumes on social media to see which gets the best response. Others will look to others online for inspiration.” - “In this way, Halloween meshes with modern networked culture, in which young adults are using social media to navigate the world and make choices. Sociologists have found that many young adults build “collaborative selves” by continuously looking to others online to reinforce and evaluate their identities.” - “Halloween has always promised the chance to be creative and to become something else. But in embracing the holiday, emerging adults are doing more than reject traditional adulthood. They’re playing with identity in a way that puts their skills and cultural competence to work. They’re defining new ways to be – and become – an adult. And in the process, they’ve changed the way Halloween is celebrated.” - The Tensions of Halloween - An Opportunity to Play with Identity vs. Cultural/Racial Appropriation - Role Model vs. Individual Choice - Role Model vs. Halloween’s Themes of Gore, Violence, Horror, etc. - Freedom of “Speech” vs. Empathy and Respect - Model Code of Ethics for Educators “https://www.nasdtec.net/page/MCEE_Doc” - The professional educator demonstrates responsibility to oneself and the profession by: Refraining from professional or personal activity that may lead to reducing one’s effectiveness within the school community - The professional educator respects the rights and dignity of all students by: Taking into account how appearance and dress can affect one’s interactions and relationships with students - The professional educator demonstrates an ethic of care through: - 1. Seeking to understand students’ educational, academic, personal and social needs as well as students’ values, beliefs and cultural background; - 2. Respecting the dignity, worth and uniqueness of each individual student including, but not limited to, actual and perceived gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual orientation, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic context, status, and culture - The professional educator promotes appropriate and effective effective and appropriate relationships with parents/guardians by: Demonstrating a commitment to equality, equity, diversity and inclusion with parents/guardians - The professional educator promotes appropriate and effective and appropriate relationships with employers by: Exhibiting personal and professional conduct that is in the best interest of the organization, learning community, school community and profession; - Costumes to Avoid – from Good Housekeeping - Holocaust victim/Nazi - Anything involving blackface - Transphobic costumes - The COVID–19 pandemic - Body-shaming and objectifying costumes - Cultural stereotypes - Terrorist-related - Zombie versions of dead celebrities - Eating disorders / body dysmorphia - Animal cruelty - The mentally ill - Sexual harassment or abuse - A homeless person - National tragedies - Social movements (pro/con) - Additional Themes that Can Be Landmines - Politics - Overly sexualized – no “Sexy Teacher” costumes, at least around kids - Overly Gory or Gruesome - Thanks to Social Media, Your Costume Choice Can Be Judged Globally - Avoiding the Costume Cybertrap - Think! Will Your Attempt at Humor Be Offensive or Hurtful? - Get a Second (or Third) Opinion - Administrators Should Share Advice (and This Podcast) Now - You Don’t Have to Be Around Kids to Get in Trouble - - Resources - #2022–09–27 Most Offensive Halloween Costumes This Year “https://www.workandmoney.com/s/most-offensive-halloween-costumes–866dfb26e5884879” - #2022–06–06 15 Offensive Halloween Costumes That Shouldn’t Exist “https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/halloween-ideas/a40778/most-offensive-halloween-costumes/” - #2021–11–18 The Parkdale Teacher Who Wore Blackface As A Halloween Costume Got Fired By The Toronto District School Board “https://6ix.buzz/the-parkdale-teacher-who-wore-blackface-as-a-halloween-costume-got-fired-by-the-toronto-district-school-board/” - #2021–11–03 A White teacher is under investigation after showing up to school in blackface, the principal says “https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/03/us/blackface-white-teacher-canada-trnd/index.html” - #2021–11–01 Teacher Who Came to School in Blackface Forced to Wash to ‘Not Cause Further Harm’ “https://www.newsweek.com/teacher-who-came-school-blackface-forced-wash-not-cause-further-harm–1644621” - #2022–10–03 Halloween 2022 “https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/history-of-halloween#:~:text=In%20the%20late%201800s%2C%20there,way%20to%20celebrate%20the%20day.” - #2021–10–29 It’s 2020. Offensive costumes have NO place in Halloween. “https://www.pride.com/identities/8-problematic-halloween-costume-ideas-you-should-never-attempt ” - #2021–10–25 The Cybertraps Podcast, Episode 88: “Will Your Costume Cost You Your Career?” “https://www.cybertraps.com/2021/10/25/will-your-costume-cost-you-your-career-cybertraps–88-halloween-edition/” - #2020–08–19 Please Avoid These 15 Inappropriate Halloween Costumes “https://finance.yahoo.com/photos/15-totally-inappropriate-halloween-costumes–154207858/” - #2019–03–20 Teacher wore an Obama mask, Trump hat to school and it didn’t go over well “https://www.nj.com/essex/2019/03/teachers-obama-mask-trump-hat-costume-fuels-racial-tensions-at-high-school.html” - #2018–10–31 At this high school, staff and students take Halloween very seriously “https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/holy-spirit-school-costumes–1.4885711” - #2018–10–29 ‘My culture is not a costume’: Seattle school talks appropriate Halloween costumes “https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/take–5/my-costume-is-not-a-culture-seattle-school-talks-appropriate-halloween-costumes/281–609343212” - #2018–10–26 Why has Halloween become so popular among adults? “https://theconversation.com/why-has-halloween-become-so-popular-among-adults–104896” - #2018–10–25 Iowa Elementary School Teacher Allegedly Wears Blackface to Halloween Party “https://www.newsweek.com/teacher-iowa-allegedly-blackface-halloween-party–1188281” - #2016–11–04 Seattle high school teacher suspended for controversial Halloween costume “https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/seattle-high-school-teacher-suspended-for-controversial-halloween-costume/463887455/” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24695403

The Negative Effects of Online Content Cybertraps 138 10/18/2022

The Negative Effects of Online Content Cybertraps 138 News Item: Molly Russell, a 14-year-old girl living in London, committed suicide in November 2017. Earlier today (Sept. 30, 2022), a senior coroner ruled that her death was the result of depression and “the negative effects of online content.” Inquest A two-week inquest into the cause of Russell’s death focused on her use of Instagram and Pinterest Process was very slow due to lengthy response time by tech giants Evidence showed that she viewed a variety of graphic content in the months before her death “Molly viewed more than 16,000 pieces of content on Instagram in the final six months of her life, of which 2,100 were related to suicide, self-harm and depression. The inquest also heard how she had compiled a digital pinboard on Pinterest with 469 images related to similar subjects.” “Algorithms, which curate a user’s online experience, recommended 34 Instagram accounts to Molly that were either “sad or depressive related”, while Pinterest sent a message to Molly’s email address recommending “10 depression pins you might like”.” The coroner found that some of the sites she viewed were “not safe” because they allowed her to view content inappropriate for a 14-year-old Ian Russell, Molly’s father, said “his daughter had reached out for help on Twitter to personalities with thousands or even millions of followers, who would not even necessarily notice a tweet from someone like Molly.” “One message, sent to US actress Lili Reinhart, which was read to the court, said: ”I can’t take it any more. I need to reach out to someone, I just can’t take it." “It is likely that the above material viewed by Molly, already suffering with a depressive illness and vulnerable due to her age, affected her in a negative way and contributed to her death in a more than minimal way,” the coroner said. “Elizabeth Lagone, the head of health and wellbeing policy at Meta, the owner of Instagram and Facebook, admitted Molly had viewed posts that violated its content policies and Lagone apologised.” “A senior Pinterest executive also apologised for the platform showing inappropriate content and acknowledged that the platform was not safe at the time Molly was on it.” An Enormous Problem Research in the UK showed 45% of children aged 8–17 have seen harmful content, including self-harm and suicide, pornography, sexualised and violent imagery, anonymous trolling, and content featuring images of diet restriction. According to the report, "[C]hildren rarely sought out this content. “It is promoted and offered up to them by highly complex recommendation algorithms, which are designed to capture and retain their attention. When harmful content is reported to platforms, children tell me that little is done in response.” Platforms self-regulate, “using a mixture of human moderators and artificial intelligence to find and take down illegal or harmful material proactively or when users report it to them.” “[P]latforms struggle with moderating the sheer scale of content being posted and the balancing act of allowing users to express themselves while trying to keep their online spaces safe.” Activism and Governmental Response Russell’s parents have become outspoken advocates for greater regulation of social media The family has set up the , which is dedicated to connecting under–25s with mental health services The UK is drafting an online safety bill, which will place a “duty of care on tech companies to shield children from harmful content and systems.” Tech companies must do a professional assessment of how their platforms may harm children and what they can do to mitigate the risks. “Ofcom, the communications watchdog, will vet those proposals and monitor the companies’ adherence to them. Breaches of the bill can be met with fines of up £18m or 10% of a company’s worldwide revenue. Instagram’s owner, Meta, recorded a turnover of $118bn (£106bn) last year.” Legal Issues The UK does not have a First Amendment, so greater latitude in terms of regulating online content The First Amendment in the United States guarantees freedom of speech, making regulation much more difficult In addition, Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act offers legal protection to online service providers who distribute “user-generated content” One possible avenue is to focus on the regulation of algorithms as a “product,” and then apply consumer safety regulations Suicide Prevention In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1–800–273–8255. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org. Resources - #2022–09–30 Molly Russell: Harrow schoolgirl died as a result of ‘self harm’, inquest finds “https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/molly-russell-harrow-schoolgirl-died–25145910” - #2022–09–30 Molly Russell: how family are helping shift narrative on online safety “https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/sep/30/molly-russell-family-helping-shift-online-safety-regulation” - #2022–09–30 Molly Russell died while suffering from effects of online content, coroner says “https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/sep/30/molly-russell-died-while-suffering-negative-effects-of-online-content-rules-coroner” - #2022–09–30 ‘Molly turned to celebrities for help not knowing there was little chance of reply’: Coroner’s landmark ruling that social media posts glamourising suicide DID contribute to 14-year-old’s death from self-harm - as her father makes plea for change “https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article–11266467/Coroner-rules-social-media-posts-viewed-Molly-Russell–14-not-safe.html” - #2022–09–30 Damming verdict on social media: Coroner rules schoolgirl Molly Russell killed herself after viewing harmful posts “https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/senior-coroner-rules-online-content-played-part-in-death-of-molly-russell/” - #2022–09–30 Molly Russell inquest – coroner’s conclusion in full “https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/molly-russell-inquest-coroner-conclusion–111821661.html ” - #2022–09–29 Molly Russell inquest must lead to action on internet dangers, says coroner “https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/sep/29/molly-russell-inquest-must-lead-to-action-on-internet-dangers-says-coroner” - #2022–09–29 Almost half of children in England have seen harmful content online – survey “https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/sep/29/almost-half-of-children-in-england-have-seen-harmful-content-online-survey” - #2022–09–29 Digital childhoods: a survey of children and parents “https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/report/digital-childhoods-a-survey-of-children-and-parents/” - #2022–09–27 Psychiatrist ‘did not sleep well’ after viewing content seen by Molly Russell “https://uk.news.yahoo.com/psychiatrist-did-not-sleep-well–112519535.html” - #2022–09–23 Molly Russell inquest: Instagram clips seen by teen ‘most distressing’ “https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london–62998484” - #2022–09–22 Molly Russell inquest: Pinterest executive admits site was not safe “https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london–62991510” - #2022–03–23 TechScape: Could this be the end of trolls and cyberflashers? “https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/mar/23/techscape-online-safety-bill” - #2022–03–16 Molly Russell inquest: family frustrated by wait for Instagram data “https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/mar/16/molly-russell-inquest-family-frustrated-by-wait-for-instagram-data” - #2021–12–06 Molly Russell coroner challenges social media firms to help make internet safer “https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/molly-russell-london-harrow-facebook-instagram-b970293.html” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24695385

The Cybertraps of Emerging Technologies: “Deep Fakes,” Augmented and Virtual Reality, the Metaverse, and Whatever AI Has In Store for Us Cybertraps 139 10/18/2022

The Cybertraps of Emerging Technologies: “Deep Fakes,” Augmented and Virtual Reality, the Metaverse, and Whatever AI Has In Store for Us Cybertraps 139 This is a preview of Fred’s general session presentation at PPI on October 19 in Boise, ID The full title of the presentation is “The Cybertraps of Emerging Technologies: “Deep Fakes,” Augmented and Virtual Reality, the Metaverse, and Whatever AI Has In Store for Us” Outline Introduction The March of the Eduverse: A Brief Overview What Is Reality, Really? “Augmented” Reality “Virtual” Reality The Metaverse: The Avatar’s Playground Artificial Intelligence : Old Concept, Terrifying Potential Fred’s live DALL-E 2 rendering Risk Factors for Educators Insufficiently Understood Technology Further Shared Space with Students Student Technological Edge Challenges of Supervision Potential Cybertraps Personal Distraction Inappropriate Content Professional Inappropriate Friendships Favoritism / Virtual Gift-Giving Invasions of sTUDENT Privacy Cyberharassment and Cyberbullying Virtual Assault Resources - #2022–09–27 This Artificial Intelligence App Wants To Make You A Better Teacher “https://www.forbes.com/sites/emmawhitford/2022/09/27/this-artificial-intelligence-app-wants-to-make-you-a-better-teacher/” - #2022–09–23 Opinion: The metaverse could be transformative, but it’s a legal and ethical minefield “https://www.cnn.com/2022/09/23/opinions/metaverse-transformative-ethics-thomason-spc-intl/index.html” - #2022–09–12 Metaverse Beckons A New Avatar Of Education But Are We Ready? “https://www.outlookindia.com/business/metaverse-beckons-a-new-avatar-of-education-but-are-we-ready–news–222843” - #2022–09–06 How artificial intelligence can be a force for good in schools “https://www.tes.com/magazine/teaching-learning/general/how-ai-artificial-intelligence-good-schools” - #2022–06–01 The Metaverse Is Already Here, and K–12 Schools Are Using It for Education “https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2022/06/metaverse-already-here-and-k–12-schools-are-using-it-education” - #2022–05–11 The Metaverse: 5 Things Educators Should Know “https://www.techlearning.com/news/the-metaverse–5-things-educators-should-know” - #2022–04–25 What Is the Metaverse, Exactly? “https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-the-metaverse/” - #2022–02–15 Why you can’t have legs in virtual reality (yet) “https://www.cnn.com/2022/02/15/tech/vr-no-legs-explainer/index.html” - #2021–11–29 Teaching in the ‘Metaverse’? Roblox Looks to Make It a Reality “https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/teaching-in-the-metaverse-roblox-looks-to-make-it-a-reality/2021/11” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24695394

Smartwatches for Little Kids: Yes or No? Cybertraps 137 09/27/2022

Smartwatches for Little Kids: Yes or No? Cybertraps 137 News Item: A recent New York Times article reports that an increasing number of parents are buying Apple watches for elementary school kids Smartwatches for children are a booming sector of the tech market Hundreds of different models with a range of features Some smartwatches are tied to particular cellular companies, others are “unlocked” A 2020 survey showed that 31% of American teens owned a smartwatch, compared to 21% of adults Features and Selling Points of Smartwatches Limited apps / less distraction than phones Voice calls and basic texting (with cellular connectivity – typically part of family plan) Importance of Communication with Child for Schedule Changes, Emergencies Location tracking by parents Geofencing for alerts Can help delay requests for smartphone Some watches come with apps to help with time management and to encourage physical activity Apple introduced “Family Setup,” which gives parents the ability to supervise a range of data on the phone and limit notifications Smartwatch Issues to Consider Cost Durability/Fragility of Device Maturity / Development of Child Plan time to educate child on using device Will child wear it every day? Battery / Power management Brand Capture Safety and Etiquette Teach children to avoid distracted walking Don’t be distracted by watch when interacting with other people Understand risks of strange messages or calls Privacy Is the child’s information on the watch protected? Does the watch company comply with COPPA? Does the CHILD understand that his or her location is being tracked? Transparency is important. If smartwatch has a camera, child needs to understand privacy boundaries for themselves and others How Are Schools Reacting? Generally positive Fewer restrictions than smartphones Less distraction Recommended Brands Verizon GizmoWatch2 (~ $100) TickTalk4 (~ $190) Xplora X5 Play (~ $200) Apple SE (~ $300) Resources - #2022–09–01 - #2022–09–01 - #2022–08–31 - #2022–08–30 - #2022–08–23 - #2022–08–06 - #2022–08–03 - #2021–10–26 - #2021–09–16 /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24488742

To Catch a Creep Cybertraps 136 09/20/2022

To Catch a Creep Cybertraps 136 News Item – Students at Davisville Middle School in North Kingstown, RI set up a Discord subchannel to document inappropriate behavior by a teacher North Kingstown School District is a hot mess In April 2022, a series of lawsuits were filed against the District, high school administrators, and former boys’ basketball coach Aaron Thomas. The suit alleges that Thomas ordered boys to strip naked and then used calipers on their thighs to allegedly measure body fat percentage Complaints were made about Thomas’s behavior in 2017 and 2018, but the suit alleges that nothing was done Players felt coerced to cooperate because they were competing for spots on the team and playing time Defendants named in the lawsuit include: School committee members North Kingston finance director Former district superintendent Philip Auger Former HS principal and assistant superintendent Denise Mancieri Former teacher/coach Aaron Thomas A second lawsuit alleges that the District was slow to take action against a different coach who stalked a young student for weeks Parents complained repeatedly to school officials but received little cooperation Eventually, the teacher was removed from the district but went on to work in two other districts and is still licensed in Rhode Island Retired judge Susan McGuirl conducted an independent review of the District’s response to the Thomas complaints and concluded that the District and several of its employees had failed to take appropriate action When a school fails, they lost the trust of the community that they serve. Schools must recognize their failures and making the necessary changes to prevent something like this from happening again. That trust must be rebuilt, and that will take time, To rebuild this trust, they must be candid and transparent with the community they serve regarding the changes they are making and any future situations they may encounter. Following the report, administrators Auger and Mancieri resigned. In addition, the U.S. Attorney for the state of Rhode Island opened an investigation In July, six statements were filed with the U.S. Attorney regarding inappropriate behavior by two former North Kingstown coaches. They were accused of finding excuses to watch middle school girls in dance classes, inappropriate comments, encouraging sexualized dancing in class, and overly intimate spotting and assisting during gymnastics and exercise classes In his statement, a current Davis Middle School male student alluded to a “log regarding the comments and conduct that bothered us.” The Boston Globe obtained a copy of the log and reported on it in early September 2022 Several sixth grade boys were uncomfortable with how a teacher was treating their female classmates By seventh grade, they decided to take notes, and tried to tell adults (parents? other teachers? administrators?) what was going on. They did not feel anyone was taking them seriously. In January 2021, decided to electronically document different incidents They set up a Discord subchannel, named it after the teacher, and labeled it “Pedo Database.” The kids took notes in real time: “During COVID, as they attended class online, they’d open the Discord channel on a split-screen and document the teacher’s comments …” “Once they were back in class in person, the boys jotted down notes to add to the channel later…” “The “Pedo Database” is in the hands of the US attorney’s Office, the state Department of Children, Youth, and Families, the state Department of Education, and with lawyer Matthew Oliverio, who is conducting the school’s internal investigation.” Screenshot shows Discord conversation and the savvy with which the boys took notes: teacher comments, students at whom they were directed, date/time [Discord.png] Takeaways Decent kids; great of them to look out for their classmates Adults should do a better job of listening to kids Kids are increasingly sophisticated about the world and how technology can be used to interact with it Kids are not necessarily fully cognizant of the harm that can be caused by casually using or misusing certain words Kids are not trained investigators nor are they necessarily unbiased observers Technology continues to shift traditional power dynamics; kids have access to endless communication and collaboration tools, many invisible to adults Potential for abuse by students is not insignificant; false accusations are not uncommon Resources S.E.S.A.M.E. (Stop Educator Sexual Abuse, Misconduct, and Exploitation) “https://www.sesamenet.org/ ” - #2022–09–12 New England Teacher On Leave After 8 Middle School Boys Keep Log Of His Alleged Harassment “https://dailyvoice.com/connecticut/hartford/schools/new-england-teacher-on-leave-after–8-middle-school-boys-keep-log-of-his-alleged-harassment/843375/” - #2022–09–11 A Rhode Island teacher is on leave after a group of middle-school boys who thought he was a ‘creep’ used a ‘pedo database’ to keep track of how he interacted with girls in their class “https://www.insider.com/teacher-on-leave-middle-school-boys-creep-pedo-database-girls–2022–9 ” - #2022–09–09 The middle school boys thought their teacher was a ‘creep.’ So they tracked how he treated the girls. “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/09/09/metro/middle-school-boys-thought-their-teacher-was-creep-so-they-tracked-how-he-treated-girls/” - #2022–07–27 What you need to know about North Kingstown High School Coach Aaron Thomas and the ‘fat test’ issue “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/11/30/metro/more-news-about-north-kingstown-high-school-coach-aaron-thomas/ ” - #2022–07–08 New allegations of ‘creepy’ behavior leveled against two North Kingstown coaches “https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/crime/2022/07/08/north-kingstown-school-coaches-accused-behavior-girls-uncomfortable/7831575001/” - #2022–06–13 Naked fat testing of NK basketball players was ‘open secret’. What a blistering report says “https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/06/13/aaron-thomas-scandal-judge-mcguirl-report-fat-testing-released-north-kingston-ri/7609644001/” - #2022–06–09 Independent Review of the North Kingston Fat Testing Controversy “https://www.northkingstown.org/DocumentCenter/View/5864/Judge-McGuirl-Report” - #2022–06–01 A second former student has sued North Kingstown schools over a coach’s ‘fat tests’ “https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/06/01/north-kingston-ri-basketball-coach-school-district-sued-student-fat-test/7469424001/” - #2022–05–16 Bill aims to criminalize sex between students and adults in ‘position of authority’ “https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/05/16/ri-bill-would-criminalize-sex-between-students-and-teachers-coaches/9793392002/” - #2022–04–30 North Kingstown superintendent places middle-school teacher on leave, orders investigation after stalking allegations “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/04/30/metro/north-kingstown-superintendent-places-middle-school-teacher-leave-orders-investigation-after-stalking-allegations/ ” - #2022–04–28 Another North Kingstown coach accused of inappropriate behavior with underage student “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/04/28/metro/another-north-kingstown-coach-accused-inappropriate-behavior-with-underage-student/ ” - #2022–04–20 Former student sues North Kingstown officials over Aaron Thomas ‘fat-testing’ scandal “https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/local/2022/04/20/aaron-thomas-fat-testing-former-north-kingston-student-sues-school-officials/7383765001/” - #2017–04–05 These high school journalists investigated a new principal’s credentials. Days later, she resigned. “https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2017/04/05/these-high-school-journalists-investigated-a-new-principals-credentials-days-later-she-resigned/” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24488721

The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act Cybertraps 135 09/13/2022

The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act Cybertraps 135 News Item – On August 29, 2022, the California Senate unanimously passed the Age-Appropriate Design Act. It previously received unanimous approval in the State Assembly It is currently awaiting Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signature People expect him to sign it but it could anger tech companies, who might then be less inclined to support a Newsom run for president in 2028 Earlier this summer, the legislature rejected a proposed bill called the Social Media Platform Duty to Children Act It “would have allowed the state attorney general and local prosecutors to sue social media companies for knowingly incorporating features into their products that addicted children.” The California law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP (see resources) has an excellent summary article regarding the Age-Appropriate Design Act The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act is modeled after the United Kingdom’s Age Appropriate Design Code, which went into effect in September 2021 If signed, it will be the first piece of U.S. legislation "that imposes a number of novel restrictions and data protection obligations on businesses providing services to users under the age of 18, including: requirements to conduct a data protection impact assessment before any new services are offered, configure all default privacy settings to a high level of privacy (unless there are compelling reasons to suggest it is otherwise in the best interests of children), and provide an obvious signal to the child when they are being monitored or tracked by their parent, guardian or another consumer." The bill prohibits businesses from: profiling a child by default unless certain criteria are satisfied using the personal information of any child in a way that is materially detrimental to their well-being and using dark patterns to lead or encourage children to provide personal information beyond what is reasonably expected. Motivations Legislative and parental concern over impact of online services and products on children’s wellbeing The desire to create safer online spaces for children “The Act emphasizes that the best interests of the child should be taken into consideration by all businesses that develop and provide online services, products or features (“Services”) that children are likely to access and, in the event of a conflict between the businesses’ commercial interests and the best interests of children, the privacy and well-being of children must be prioritized.” Key features of the Act: It’s very broad in its application. Applies to online products and services “(i) specifically directed at children and (ii) that are “likely to be accessed” by children.” Prior to any new Services being offered to the public which are likely to be accessed by children, the Act requires that the business complete a Data Protection Impact Assessment and maintain documentation of this assessment for as long as the Services are likely to be accessed by children. Default privacy settings must be high Business must provide clear, age-appropriate privacy information There must be an “obvious sign” that a business or service is tracking a child’s activity or geolocation Businesses are required to provide prominent and effective tools “to help children exercise their rights and report concerns.” Restrictions on the use of collected data, including: Cannot be used in any way that is “materially detrimental” to a child’s mental or physical health Profiling only under limited circumstances No use of “dark patterns,” i.e., design choices that trick a user into performing some unintended behavior Businesses are required to estimate the age of child users "with a ‘reasonable’ level of certainty The Act establishes the California Children’s Data Protection Working Group, aimed at developing best practices Penalties Negligent violations can result in civil penalties of up to $2,500 per affected child Penalties for Intentional violations are $7,500 per affected child Businesses in substantial compliance otherwise have 90 days to cure No private right of action National Relevance As with so many other things, California is so large that the states rules and regulations have ripple effects around the country Resources - #2022–09–06 California Senate Approves Landmark California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act “https://www.akingump.com/en/news-insights/california-senate-approves-landmark-california-age-appropriate-design-code-act.html” - #2022–09–06 California lawmakers approve groundbreaking internet privacy law for kids “https://www.ijpr.org/media-society/2022–09–06/california-lawmakers-approve-groundbreaking-internet-privacy-law-for-kids” - #2022–09–01 Twit.tv Episode with Leo Laporte, Jeff Jarvis, Stacey Higginbotham, and Ant Pruitt, with guest Mike Masnick “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvpjSoFiu-g” - #2022–08–25 Op-Ed: Regulate social media? California still has a plan for that “https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022–08–25/social-media-kids-safety-california” - #2021–06–30 The [UK] Age Appropriate Design Code: A quick, practical guide for games businesses “https://www.gamesindustry.biz/the-age-appropriate-design-code-a-quick-practical-guide-for-games-businesses” - [n.d.] Introduction to the [UK] Age appropriate design code “https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/guide-to-data-protection/ico-codes-of-practice/age-appropriate-design-code/” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24394854

The California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act Cybertraps 135 09/13/2022

The Ethical Implications of Advertising to Gen-Z with Scott Rabinowitz Cybertraps 134 08/30/2022

The Push to Ban Phones in Schools Accelerates Cybertraps 133 08/23/2022

The Push to Ban Phones in Schools Accelerates Cybertraps 133 News Item – The Boston Globe Publishes an Editorial Urging Schools to Prohibit Student Phone Use at School “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/08/22/opinion/sorry-kids-no-more-phones-school/” Overarching Questions / Issues This is a global issue 2022/2023 freshman are the iGen – born after introduction of iPhone in 2007 (!) Is this part of a move to de-emphasize screens in education generally? Will strict private schools scare away tech-savvy students? Justifications Distraction / Loss of Focus On average, kids unlock their phones 50 times each day Impact on Grades Many educators report improved performance when access to devices is restricted Post-Pandemic Need for Non-Phone Socialization Kids who engage more face-to-face are generally happier Less spontaneity and real-world creativity Teaching self-control should be part of school’s social-emotional curriculum “I think great ideas come from boredom.” – John Kalapos, Buxton history teacher and tech committee chair Methods Complete on-campus bans – no smartphones at all Partial bans – students allowed to use phones between classes and at lunch Lockbags / Pouches In some schools, teachers and administrators have a tool for unlocking containers Other schools have unlocking magnets at each exit; kids tap the bag on the magnet as they leave Partnership with Yondr [ https://www.overyondr.com/ ] Originally founded in 2014 to limit use of phones in music venues Cabinets (“Cellphone Hotels”) / Lockers / Hanging Shoe Organizers Some schools permit “dumb” phones and the use of laptops to access the internet One private school is promoting the Light Phone [ https://www.thelightphone.com/ ] Teachers encouraged to model good behavior by observing school bans Objections and Concerns Parents want to be able to contact their children In 2015, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio abandoned a policy against phones in schools Kids are NOT enthusiastic Protests and fire alarms pulled at Torrington High School in Feb. 2022 Kids ignore school policies (as many as 2/3 disregard bans, according to a national survey) Efforts to police bans may also be damaging to learning and student mental health For some students, a phone may be their only technology Concerns over security of devices during the day Some teachers and school board members want to have schools incorporate phones (and especially social media) into curricula Schools need to upgrade phone systems to make it possible for parents to reach children Schools need a plan for digital withdrawal; phones, apps, and social media designed to be addictive American Academy of Pediatrics dropped screen time limits for kids 5 and older because the impact of screen time varied based on the personality and circumstances of each kid Resources - #2022–08–22 Sorry, kids, no more phones in school “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/08/22/opinion/sorry-kids-no-more-phones-school/” - #2022–08–21 Boston high school teacher wants city to implement smartphone ban “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/08/21/opinion/boston-high-school-teacher-wants-city-implement-smartphone-ban/” - #2022–08–18 “They don’t interact with each other.” The growing movement to ban phones in high schools. “https://www.mamamia.com.au/mobile-phone-ban-australia/” - #2022–08–15 Utah middle school bans phones from entire school day “https://kslnewsradio.com/1973508/utah-middle-school-bans-phones-from-entire-school-day/” - #2022–08–14 High school phone ban ‘more urgent than ever’ amid pressure on teens “https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/high-school-phone-ban-more-urgent-than-ever-amid-pressure-on-teens–20220809-p5b8dp.html” - #2022–08–13 Some Mass. high schools adopt strict cellphone-free policies this school year “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/08/13/metro/mass-high-schools-adopt-strict-cellphone-free-policies-this-school-year/ ” - #2022–07–16 A boarding school in the Berkshires is banning smartphones for students and teachers “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/07/16/business/boarding-school-berkshires-is-banning-smartphones-students-teachers/ ” - #2022–05–09 Chicopee High principal says cell phone locking has resulted in better student performance “https://www.masslive.com/news/2022/05/chicopee-high-principal-says-cell-phone-locking-has-resulted-in-better-student-performance.html” - #2022–02–25 Police respond as high school students protest phone policy “https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/02/25/metro/police-respond-high-school-students-protest-phone-policy/ ” - #2018–06–01 How one local high school teacher got his students to actually put away their phones “https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/regionals/west/2018/06/01/students-check-their-devices-cellphone-hotel/LuoA4LUJ807R0t5BsVnKTL/story.html ” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/24181290

The Cybertraps of Choice: Pregnancy & Privacy in a Post-Roe World Episode 132 08/02/2022

The Cybertraps of Choice: Pregnancy & Privacy in a Post-Roe World Episode 132 - News Item -- On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. - The Court expressly overruled Roe v. Wade (1973) and Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992) - Each state is now able to adopt its own laws regarding the practice of abortion - Overview - An important reminder: Roe was a privacy case - The Court was trying to balance three separate constitutional principles - A woman's right to privacy - The State's interest in protecting the health of a pregnant person - The State's interest in protecting the life of a viable fetus - Roe was an extension of two earlier privacy cases: Griswold v. Connecticut (1965), which established a federal "right to privacy" with respect to a married woman's ability to obtain contraceptives from her doctor, and Eisenstadt v. Baird (1972), which extended that same right to unmarried women. - How Might Cybertraps Arise? - Suspicious Circumstances - It is often difficult to tell the different between a spontaneous miscarriage and a self-medicated abortion - Approximately 30% of all pregnancies end in a spontaneous miscarriage - Criminal Investigations - Abortion is now banned in six states - Alabama - Arkansas - Mississippi - Missouri - Oklahoma - South Dakota - It is a crime to perform abortions and in most states, to "aid and abet" someone having an abortion - The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) does not prevent a doctor or medical organization reporting personal health data if they think a crime has been committed - Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) is very similar in this regard. - If someone reports that an abortion has occurred, local law enforcement or a local prosecutor could initiate a criminal investigation - Law enforcement can: - subpoena data from online account - conduct forensic exams of digital equipment - Civil litigation - A handful of states, led by Texas, have created systems that deputize enforcement to private citizens - Under that scheme, an individual located anywhere in the country can file a lawsuit alleging that another person performed an illegal abortion or aided and abetted a person in obtaining one - If the lawsuit is successful (by "a preponderance of the evidence"), the defendant can be ordered to pay a minimum of $10,000 as well as costs and attorneys fees - All of the usual civil litigation rules apply, including discovery of relevant evidence (apps, browser history, social media, cell phone records, etc.) - Risks for Educators - Social media posts that are contrary to state law - Requests for advice from students - What Data Is Collected? - Cybertraps for Expecting Moms & Dads - Erratic protection of personal data across the country - Communications - Email - Messaging - Health Care Data - Health Care Providers - Employers - Financial Records - Bank accounts - Credit cards - Online payment apps (Paypal, Stripe, etc.) - Browsers and Search Engines - Social Media - Selfie-incrimination - Tagging - Apps - Fertility - Health, General - Smartwatches - Can pinpoint the start of pregnancy from biometric information - Geolocation - Cellphone tower pings - Apps - Location tracking (Foursquare) - Geo-announcements (Twitter) - Location tracking by Google Maps, Waze, or iMaps - Governmental Tracking Tools - License plate readers - Biometrics - Other Looming Constitutional Issues - The Right to Travel - Some states are considering laws that would prohibit their citizens from traveling out-of-state for abortions - Criminal enforcement would be difficult (although surveillance tools are growing increasingly powerful) - Civil enforcement presents many fewer constitutional questions - Free Speech/Freedom of the Press - Some state legislators have also expressed interest in trying to prohibit web sites from publishing certain information about abortion (self-medication, availability of out-of-state services, etc.) within their states - As a practical matter, it's challenging to block such content (VPNs, TOR browers, etc.) - Such efforts would call into question the fundamental structure of the internet - Resources - #2022-07-20 Data privacy, abortion limits set to collide post-Roe [https://rollcall.com/2022/07/20/data-privacy-abortion-limits-set-to-collide-post-roe/](https://rollcall.com/2022/07/20/data-privacy-abortion-limits-set-to-collide-post-roe/) - #2022-07-13 In a Post-Roe World, the Future of Digital Privacy Looks Even Grimmer [https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/13/technology/personaltech/abortion-privacy-roe-surveillance.html](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/13/technology/personaltech/abortion-privacy-roe-surveillance.html) - #2022-07-08 How to protect your privacy in a post-Roe America [https://mashable.com/article/how-to-protect-online-privacy-post-roe-abortion](https://mashable.com/article/how-to-protect-online-privacy-post-roe-abortion) - #2022-07-08 Protecting digital privacy post-Roe [https://whyy.org/episodes/protecting-digital-privacy-post-roe/](https://whyy.org/episodes/protecting-digital-privacy-post-roe/) - #2022-07-06 How online searches and texts can put you at risk in a post-Roe world, and how to protect yourself - #2022-07-02 Data privacy concerns make the post-Roe era uncharted territory [https://www.npr.org/2022/07/02/1109565803/data-privacy-abortion-roe-apps](https://www.npr.org/2022/07/02/1109565803/data-privacy-abortion-roe-apps) - #2022-06-30 Deleting Your Period Tracker Won’t Protect You [https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/30/technology/period-tracker-privacy-abortion.html](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/30/technology/period-tracker-privacy-abortion.html) - #2022-06-29 The future of privacy rights in a post-Roe world [https://www.axios.com/2022/06/29/privacy-right-roe-v-wade-dobbs-v-jackson-online-data](https://www.axios.com/2022/06/29/privacy-right-roe-v-wade-dobbs-v-jackson-online-data) - #2022-06-28 Why some fear that big tech data could become a tool for abortion surveillance [https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/why-some-fear-that-big-tech-data-could-become-a-tool-for-abortion-surveillance](https://www.pbs.org/newshour/economy/why-some-fear-that-big-tech-data-could-become-a-tool-for-abortion-surveillance) - #2022-06-27 The Biggest Privacy Risks in Post-Roe America [https://www.theverge.com/23185081/abortion-data-privacy-roe-v-wade-dobbs-surveillance-period-tracking](https://www.theverge.com/23185081/abortion-data-privacy-roe-v-wade-dobbs-surveillance-period-tracking) - #2022-06-24 What police could find out about your illegal abortion [https://www.vox.com/recode/23059057/privacy-abortion-phone-data-roe](https://www.vox.com/recode/23059057/privacy-abortion-phone-data-roe) /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/23944650

Child Identity Theft with Axton Betz-Hamilton Cybertraps 131 07/26/2022

Cybertraps: Educator Vacation and Beach Photos Cybertraps 130 06/14/2022

Cybertraps: Educator Vacation and Beach Photos Cybertraps 130 The Saga of Ashley Payne (2011) After her first year of teaching, Payne went on a trip to Europe. When she returned, she created a Facebook album with several hundred vacation photos. A handful showed her enjoying a drink or two. The photo album was marked “private,” but could still be viewed by her Facebook “friends” (which did not include any students) She also mentioned on Facebook that she was heading out to play a game called “Crazy Bitch Bingo” at a local club One her vacation photos and the club post were printed out and sent anonymously to Payne’s principal On February 6, 2011, I appeared on CBS News “Sunday Morning with Charles Osgood” to discuss internet privacy; Ashley Payne was also interviewed. “https://search.alexanderstreet.com/preview/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cvideo_work%7C3165557” The Questions Can educators post photos of themselves on vacation on social media? Yes, but … Teachers are generally (and sometimes legally, as in Canada) held to a higher standard of conduct online Persistent double standard – female teachers more closely scrutinized and more harshly judged “Personal time” is often not “private” Challenging Definitions “racy photos” “scantily clad” “indecent” “risque” Legal Issues First Amendment Decency / Obscenity District / School Policies What are the potential risks? Aggressive searches by curious students Loss of privacy (i.e., control over what is shared) Oversharing by friends or family Posts by second employers (modeling agencies, fishing charters) Unflattering posts by a friend or a complete stranger Public criticism / parental trolling Harassment Adverse job actions Theft What can teachers do to protect themselves? Clean up social media channels before applying for jobs Review privacy settings Reflect on the true meaning of “friendship” Create a “Custom List” of Facebook or Instagram friends Share albums directly with trusted friends in Google Photos or Apple iCloud Selfie-searches Third-party scrubbers (but beware of scams) Hashtag Advocacy Russian teachers protested the firing of a Siberian teacher after she shared a photo of herself in a bikini, getting ready for “cold swimming” Legal counsel for adverse labor actions Resources - #2022–04–19 What the Tech: Facebook vacation photos “https://www.texomashomepage.com/what-the-tech/what-the-tech-facebook-vacation-photos/” - #2021–03–09 L.A. Teachers Union Facebook Group Warns Educators Not to Post Vacations Online Due to Bad Optics “https://www.newsweek.com/l-teachers-union-facebook-group-warns-educators-not-post-vacations-online-due-bad-optics–1574828” - #2019–04–02 Teachers turn on bikini power online to support colleague “https://www.thestandard.com.hk/breaking-news/section/6/125367/Teachers-turn-on-bikini-power-online-to-support-colleague” - #2018–06–14 Teacher are humans, too! Siberian tutors in bikini protest flashmob to support a colleague “https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/teacher-are-humans-too-siberian-tutors-in-bikini-protest-flashmob-to-support-a-colleague/” - #2018–06–10 Teacher fired in Omsk after posing in swimsuit as plus size model “https://siberiantimes.com/other/others/news/teacher-fired-in-omsk-after-posing-in-swimsuit-as-plus-size-model/” - #2016–11–28 Should teachers be banned from posting ‘scantily clad’ photos? Ottawa board seems to think so “https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/should-teachers-be-banned-from-posting-beach-photos-on-facebook-ottawa-board-seems-to-think-so” - #2016–11–28 Ottawa’s Public School Board Wants to Ban Teachers From Posting Beach Photos “https://www.vice.com/en/article/yvejwm/ottawas-public-school-board-wants-to-ban-teachers-from-posting-beach-photos” - #2016–04–10 Primary school teacher is sacked after video of her twerking in a bikini in Mexico sweeps the web and is spotted by outraged parents “https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article–3532399/Primary-school-teacher-sacked-video-twerking-bikini-Mexico-sweeps-web-spotted-outraged-parents.html” - #2016–11–27 Teachers on Facebook: Is posting that beach bikini shot going too far? “https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/teachers-on-facebook-is-posting-that-beach-bikini-shot-going-too-far” - #2015–10–22 Utah teacher wins battle with school over her ‘inappropriate’ Instagram account “https://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/utah-teacher-wins-battle-school-instagram-account-article–1.2407944” - #2015–02–10 Teachers tripped up by Facebook rants and bikini pics “https://www.theguardian.com/education/2015/feb/10/teachers-tripped-up-by-facebook-rants-and-bikini-pics ” - #2013–11–09 Too Sexy to Teach! H.S. Teacher Fired Over Bikini Pics “https://cw39.com/cw39/online-dish-too-sexy-to-teach-h-s-teacher-fired-over-bikini-pics/” - #2013–11–05 Idaho high school basketball coach Laraine Cook fired after posting Facebook photo of boyfriend grabbing breast “https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/high-school/idaho-hs-coach-canned-breast-grabbing-facebook-photo-boyfriend-escapes-firing-article–1.1507889” - #2012–04–10 Should Teachers Be Disciplined For Online Lives? “https://www.npr.org/2012/04/10/150361223/should-teachers-be-disciplined-for-online-lives” - #2011–10–11 Judge Rules Against Teacher Who Says She Was Fired Over Facebook Photos “https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/judge_rules_against_teacher_who_says_she_was_fired_over_facebook_photos” - #2011–02–08 Teacher Fired for Drinking on Facebook Isn’t the Real Problem “https://cafemom.com/parenting/115957-teacher_fired_for_drinking_on” - #2011–02–06 Did the Internet Kill Privacy? “https://www.cbsnews.com/news/did-the-internet-kill-privacy/” - #2008–04–30 Teacher Moonlighting as Bikini Mate Cut Loose “https://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=4756166&page=1” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/23444057

Social Media Monitoring: Can It Prevent School Shootings? Cybertraps 129 06/07/2022

Social Media Monitoring: Can It Prevent School Shootings? Cybertraps 129 Show notes - The Uvalde School Shooting -- A Trove of Social Media Content - Gunman posted ominous photos of rifles and other messages on Instagram - He privately messaged a young woman that he planned to attack an elementary school - He used Yubo to threaten school shootings and show off a rifle - Context - Social media is one element of a complex problem - Uvalde already used security tech, including: - Raptor Technologies, for monitoring visitors - Social Sentinel, for identifying social media threats - Challenges posed by new, less-easily monitored online channels - Increased use of end-to-end encryption even on more well-established sites, like WhatsApp, Apple Messenger, Signal, etc. Facebook wants to make E2E encryption the default for Instagram and Facebook Messenger as well. Law enforcement is opposed. - FaceTime - Yubo - Snapchat - Instagram direct messaging - Discord - Twitch - "They are fundamentally designed to keep communications private, presenting different challenges than Facebook, YouTube and Twitter, where violent screeds and videos have been algorithmically amplified to millions of viewers." - "The way that generation uses social media more generally could render years of work to spot and identify public signs of upcoming violence obsolete, social media experts warn." - Responses - Culture of cybersafety - Department of Justice School Violence Prevention Program may provide funding [https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/department-justice-invests-more-87-million-grants-address-school-violence](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/department-justice-invests-more-87-million-grants-address-school-violence) - Increased interest in social media surveillance products - No solid evidence that they work - May have built-in racial biases in algorithms - Helps to create a culture of surveillance - Conditions children that surveillance is the norm - Creates conditions (cameras, metal detectors, full-time police presence) that can make school feel like a prison - Surveillance technology more commonly used to punish minor infractions - Use of AI and algorithm-driven products - Facial recognition - Gun detection systems (scans of security camera footage) - Pandemic has driven surveillance in effort to keep kids masked and socially-distanced - Researchers argue that surveillance measures lower student performance - Resources - Dr. Glenn Lipson - #2022-06-02 The problem with schools turning to surveillance after mass shootings [https://www.vox.com/recode/23150863/school-surveillance-mass-shooting-texas-uvalde](https://www.vox.com/recode/23150863/school-surveillance-mass-shooting-texas-uvalde) - #2022-05-28 Chilling new footage shows Texas gunman Salvador Ramos during shirtless video call with 15-year-old German girl on social media app Yubo - days before he told her about his school massacre plans [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10862893/Uvalde-gunman-threatened-rapes-school-shootings-social-media-app-Yubo-weeks-massacre.html](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10862893/Uvalde-gunman-threatened-rapes-school-shootings-social-media-app-Yubo-weeks-massacre.html) - #2022-05-28 Texas gunman had threatened school shootings on social media, reports say [https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/may/28/texas-gunman-threats-behavior](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/may/28/texas-gunman-threats-behavior) - #2022-05-27 The Gunman in Uvalde Left Multiple Hints Before His Attack Began [https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/27/us/uvalde-gunman-social-media.html](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/27/us/uvalde-gunman-social-media.html) - #2022-05-26 As young gunmen turn toward new social networks, old safeguards fail [https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/05/26/shooters-social-media/](https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/05/26/shooters-social-media/) - #2022-05-22 NYC Mayor Eric Adams slams social media after Texas school shooting [https://nypost.com/2022/05/25/eric-adams-slams-social-media-after-texas-school-shooting/](https://nypost.com/2022/05/25/eric-adams-slams-social-media-after-texas-school-shooting/) SEO Keyword Question someone would ask where this would be the answer Blog Post (<1000 words) Email Video Twitter Thread /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/23360399

When You’re Curious You’re Learning with Gregg Behr Cybertraps 128 05/31/2022

Preventing Educator Abuse of Children with Dr. Charol Shakeshaft Cybertraps 127 05/25/2022

Preventing Educator Abuse of Children with Dr. Charol Shakeshaft Cybertraps 127 Show notes is a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University who studies educator sex abuse towards students prevalence and prevention. Subscribe to the How much abuse of kids is happening and has it gotten better? Why has there been so much scandal around the catholic church and so little around The power of grooming students, colleagues, parents, etc. Uninterrupted and unobserved time with students. Much still occurs in the school fact to face. We don’t know how much this is happening, nor do we know whether it is increasing or decreasing. UAWW data surprisingly showed that students had been touched inappropriately by adults, when the study was looking for peer interactions. 10% of kids People don’t want to fund research in this area. Why the discrepancy between the catholic church and schools doing this. Predominant genders involved Districts are very closed when these things happen and don’t allow much to be said. Organizational decisions that get made about Structural issue rather than an individual issue. Challenges of a school system: not judging a colleague, closed rooms, nobody Did you see the signs? Why didn’t you say anything? The culture is such that they don’t feel safe saying something. 133 superintendents - Too much passing the trash. We took care of the problem so “our” kids would be safe. By not saying anything, we are giving people permission to expand a predicliction Schools don’t just allow this to happen, schools help people find this in themselves. “It must be OK” if adults aren’t calling it out. Pay attention to how a student reports. Kids don’t say it straight up. Think of addictions, and what sets people up for doing that addiction. Start out being lonely and then it leads to another thing. Prevention - look at the organization - Policies (do they follow them?), training (not just mandatory reporting), hiring practices (not calling references), /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/23222069

Screen Time in the Summer Cybertraps 126 05/17/2022

Screen Time in the Summer Cybertraps 126 Show notes News Item Screen Time Went Up During the Pandemic “The latest report from Common Sense Media confirms what many of us know intuitively: Entertainment media use grew faster in the last two years than it did in the four years before the pandemic. While many of us didn’t think it was possible to cram more entertainment screen time into our waking hours, we somehow managed to do so in 2021.” Overview What Is Screen Time? We’ve Been Worried about It Since the Introduction of TV Computers Accelerated the Issue (1980s and 1990s) Gaming Devices, Cellphones, and Smartphones Put It All on Steroids And Then There Was a Pandemic … What Impact Has All of This Had on Your Screen Time? Latest Studies Common Sense Media Report Tweens spend an average of 5.5 hours on entertainment media Teens spend over 8 hours Social media users are getting younger: 40% of children between 8 and 12 are on social media platforms Some significant variations based on gender, race, and family income Lower-income tweens spend as much as 3 hours more each day on entertainment media Smartphone Usage in 2021 37% of 11-year-olds use a smartphone 91% of 14-year-olds You can get a to help with screentime management Screen Time Recommendations by The American Academy of Pediatrics Infants/toddlers, ages 0–2 years: No screen time exposure for infants and toddlers. The only exception being connecting with loved ones on a screen. Children ages 2–5 years: Up to one hour per day of high-quality screen time. Do not use technology as a babysitter In 2016, researchers found that babies (0–2 years) spend 42 minutes per day on screens, and children (3–4 years) spend two hours 40 minutes per day on screens. Most parents teach their child how to use a touchscreen by age two. Screen time usage per day was too high before the pandemic. It is even higher, now. Positive Benefits of Non-Screen Play Physical development Brain development Language development Tactile learning Critical-thinking skills Development of imagination Cooperation and conflict resolution Consequences Physical Posture and Bone Development Eyesight Hearing Psychological Disconnection Body image Bullying Anger and Hostility Radicalization Suicidal ideation Responses and Solutions Above all, balance Focusing on content may be more important than screen time Parents serving as good role models Distracted parenting is a real phenomenon Delay use of screens as long as possible “Wait Until Eighth” Campaign Create screen-free spaces Separate space for art, crafts, reading, board games, etc. Seek out seratonin Waldeinsamkeit – the feeling of solitude in the forest Shinrin-yoku – “forest-bathing” Friluftsliv – “open-air living” Set essential boundaries to promote: Sleep Real-World Activities Concentration Connection Mental Health and Self-Esteem Consistency Is Very Helpful to Both Kids and Adults Help children understand the business model of social media Help children put social media interactions in context Coping with Boredom Is a Life Skill and a Pathway to Creativity Resources - #2022–05–16 Millennials vow to cut down on screen time for ‘more natural life’ “https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/millennials-vow-cut-down-screen–23968163” - #2022–05–14 Too much screen time linked to ADHD, aggression, anxiety in children “https://www.studyfinds.org/screen-time-children-adhd-aggression-anxiety/” - #2022–05–13 Health experts: Time to kill screens and send kids back to camp “https://m.washingtontimes.com/news/2022/may/13/health-experts-time-kill-screens-and-send-kids-bac/” - #2022–05–12 Should kids have smartphones? Debate grows on mental health impact “https://www.today.com/parents/parents/kids-smartphones-parents-debate-smartphones-teens-tweens-rcna28489” - #2022–05–11 How has the pandemic affected children’s screen time? “https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/05/pandemic-children-screen-time/” - #2022–05–10 Add virtual ‘supervision’ over your kids’ screen time and digital content with these settings, apps “https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/05/10/add-virtual-supervision-over-your-kids-screen-time-and-digital-content-with-these-settings-apps/#/questions” - #2022–05–10 Norway says no to screen time for kids under two “https://www.thelocal.no/20220510/norway-says-no-to-screen-time-for-kids-under-two/” - #2022–05–09 Experts Can’t Agree on How Much Screen Time Is Too Much for Adults “https://time.com/6174510/how-much-screen-time-is-too-much/” - #2022–05–07 Parents encouraged to reduce children’s screen time “https://salinapost.com/posts/57b31704–8f93–48d9-a507-c3f1e3b44736” - #2022–05–05 Between pandemic restrictions and screen time, one thing is clear: The kids are not OK “https://www.star-telegram.com/opinion/nicole-russell/article260997087.html” - #2022–05–05 UW Health study: Too much screen time isn’t a problem for most teens “https://www.nbc15.com/2022/05/05/uw-health-study-too-much-screen-time-isnt-problem-most-teens/” - #2022–05–05 Screen Time Went Up During the Pandemic “https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/smart-parenting-smarter-kids/202205/screen-time-went-during-the-pandemic” - #2022–05–04 Mom Shares How She Avoided Screen Time Until Her Son Was 2 Years Old: ‘Normalize Being Bored’ “https://www.intheknow.com/post/mom-shares-how-she-avoided-screen-time-until-her-son-was–2-years-old-normalize-being-bored/” - #2022–05–04 Campaign urges rethink of Gen Z’s screen time habits “https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/campaign-urges-rethink-gen-zs–23861187” - #2022–05–02 Screen time vs. traditional play: Keeping kids balanced “https://nsjonline.com/article/2022/05/screen-time-vs-traditional-play-keeping-kids-balanced/” - #2022–0428 How parents’ views of their kids’ screen time, social media use changed during COVID–19 “https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2022/04/28/how-parents-views-of-their-kids-screen-time-social-media-use-changed-during-covid–19/” - #2022–04–28 Worried about your kids’ screen time? Check your own first. “https://www.washingtonpost.com/parenting/2022/04/28/parent-screen-time-phones/” - #2022–04–24 Report: Kids’ time spent on screen soars during the pandemic “https://cruxnow.com/cns/2022/04/report-kids-time-spent-on-screen-soars-during-the-pandemic” - #2022–04–22 Experts Say This Small Change Can Drastically Reduce Your Screen Time—So I Tested It Out “https://www.wellandgood.com/phone-black-and-white-screentime/” - #2022–04–22 Too Much Screen Time Is Linked To Self-Harming Thoughts In Teens “https://www.moms.com/excessive-screen-time-linked-self-harming-thoughts-teens/” - #2022–04–22 Office of Children’s Mental Health Releases Tips for Parents and Guardians on Healthy Screen Time Use “https://antigotimes.com/2022/04/office-of-childrens-mental-health-releases-tips-for-parents-and-guardians-on-healthy-screen-time-use/” - #2022–04–21 Screen time for kids: How to create a stress-free routine “https://www.verizon.com/about/parenting/screen-time-kids-how-create-stress-free-routine” - #2022–04–20 This app helps parents feel less guilty about screen time “https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-west/education/2022/04/19/1question-app-parents-screen-time-pandemic” - #2022–04–20 Too much screen time can hinder development “https://www.xeniagazette.com/news/55161/too-much-screen-time-can-hinder-development” - #2022–04–20 Wisconsin health officials release tips on healthy screen time for youth “https://www.nbc15.com/2022/04/21/wisconsin-health-officials-release-tips-healthy-screen-time-youth/” - #2022–04–19 US: This Gorilla Is Addicted To Smartphones, So Now His Screen Time Has Been Cut Down “https://www.indiatimes.com/trending/environment/gorilla-with-smartphone-addiction-gets-screen-time-cut-down–567308.html” - #2022–04–06 The dark side of screen time “https://scotscoop.com/the-hidden-side-of-screen-time/” - [n.d.] Wait Until Eighth “https://www.waituntil8th.org/” /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/23186762

EdTech Data Breaches: What You Need to Know Cybertraps 125 05/10/2022

EdTech Data Breaches: What You Need to Know Cybertraps 125 Show notes News Item: - On December 28, 2021, Illuminate Education was hacked. The intrusion, which lasted until January 8, 2022, compromised the private data of nearly one million students in New York State (and maybe more) - The breach affected at least 24 school districts and 18 charter schools, along with one Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) - The company initially described the hack as an “attempted security incident” but then shut down both Skedula and PupilPath for more than a week to address the issue - Possibly the largest school data breach in U.S. history - What Is Illuminate Education? - A California-based edtech company (founded in 2009) that runs a variety of school information platforms, including Skedula (aka IO Classroom), PupilPath, and eduCLIMBER - From its website: - Our solution brings together holistic data and collaborative instructional tools, and puts them in the hands of educators. - As a result, they can visualize each student’s progress, determine the right instructional or intervention strategy, and take the best next action, moment-by-moment. - More than 17 million students and 5,200 districts and schools across all 50 states rely on Illuminate every day to move the student performance needle. - It does not have a NY state- or city-wide contract but it is an approved vendor, which means that it was “rigorously reviewed” by the IT Department for the state Department of Education - Schools use the platforms for a variety of purposes: - tracking grades and attendance - communicating with parents - contact tracing for COVID–19 - The company has earned about $5 million per year from NY schools - What Data Was Compromised? - A database containing a variety of personally identifying information, including: - names - birthdays - ethnicities - home languages - student ID numbers of current and former public school students going back to the 2016–17 school year - identities of special ed students - class and teacher schedules - identities of those receiving free lunch - Post-Incident Responses - Illuminate waited two months to formally notify the city - Avoid bad publicity and/or litigation - Negotiating with hackers - Avoid compromising investigation - Illuminate claimed that all student data is encrypted but the breach revealed that was not true - New York state law requires that student information be encrypted both “at rest or in motion” - The hack is still being investigated by the Dept. of Education, the New York Police Department, the FBI, and NYS Attorney General Leticia James - A school district in Connecticut also reported a breach, as did at least two in Colorado - New York State Education Department drafted a template for a letter/web page for parents - Notification of “unauthorized release of such data” - Notification of number of years of data affected (blank in template) - A promise that more information will be provided - What Are the Risks? - Profound impact on the ability of schools to function - Identity Theft using dark web tools and resources - Credit damage to minors, who typically don’t monitor their credit - What Can Schools Do? - Make sure that their own house is in order - Updated security patches - Collaboration with other schools/districts - Ongoing review and utilization of state and federal resources - Consider bringing in outside security consultants - Review what student data is collected and whether doing so is mission-critical - Don’t just collect data because it is possible to do so - Make local backups of any data that is being transmitted to third-party vendors - Thoroughly vet third-party vendors who collect and store student data - Have they had security or data breach issues in the past? - Advocate for stronger regulation of data collection firms at both state and federal levels - What Can Parents Do? - Don’t ignore notices of potential data breaches - Change any passwords used by you or your children to interact with the school or the vendor platform(s) - Put a credit lock on child social security numbers - Take advantage of offers for complimentary credit monitoring for themselves and their children - Be wary of possible fraud – scam calls, phishing emails, etc. - Double-check by phone with school personnel about any online request for information - Talk to your children about possible misuse of their information - The price of digital data is eternal vigilance - Resources - [n.d.] Illuminate Education - [n.d.] New York State Education Department Template for Breach Notification Letter - [n.d.] How to Protect Your Child From Identity Theft - #2022–05–05 565 Schools, Over 1M Students in NY Impacted by Illuminate Data Breach, NYSED Says; 2nd Colorado District Notifies Parents - #2022–05–05 List of Schools in New York Impacted by the Illuminate Education Data Breach - #2022–05–03 Illuminate Education Data Breach Impacted At Least 24 Districts, 18 Charter Schools in NY; Investigation Launched - #2022–04–21 Illuminate Education breach that affected NYC schools spreads to Connecticut - #2022–04–21 Another School District Says Student Data Breached Within an Illuminate Education Product - #2022–03–29 After massive NYC student data breach, here are steps you can take to protect your family - #2022–03–28 Data Breach Alert: Illuminate Education - #2022–03–25 Data of 820,000 NYC students compromised in hack of online grading system: Education Dept. - #2022–03–21 Data breach exposes 820K New York City students’ information - #2022–01–15 NYC schools crippled by week-long data service systems outage - #2022–01–14 Ransomware feared in weeklong outage of online grading and attendance system used by NYC schools - #2022–01–11 Online grade and attendance system used by many NYC schools down for days SEO Keyword School Data Breach Question someone would ask where this would be the answer My school was hacked Blog Post (<1000 words) “My student’s school was hacked!” While there are certainly worse things that could happen at your child’s school, this idea of being hacked can and should cause trepidation among parents. Here are three things parents and schools can do when they have been hacked Email Video https://fb.watch/cV0rJb6vxP/ Twitter Thread The price of digital data is eternal vigilance @cybertraps /episode/index/show/cybertraps/id/23061812

Cybertraps Podcast

TOPICS