THE UNIVERSITY of Makati urged its students to observe proper ‘netiquettes’ during online learning.

In echoing the warnings of the Department of Justice and the National Privacy Commission, the university said that students and educators should be aware of the serious security and privacy risks they face now that education has shifted to distance learning.

“The pandemic has forced face-to-face classes to shift online, posing serious security and privacy risks among the students and educators. We call on everyone to practice proper netiquette and confidentiality,” UMak said on Facebook.

The school shared some tips from its Data Protection and Records Management Services: use strong passwords, be alert during online classes, avoid unintentional disclosure of private information, install anti-virus software, and to turn off microphones and videos if not needed.

It warned students against connecting to public wifi hotspots, sending data on undesignated platforms, and taking screenshots of webinars without permission.

The school also urged parents to be attentive to their children’s education and to help secure their accounts by utilizing social media platforms’ security features.

Faculty members meanwhile were advised to ensure their students’ privacy and equity as they adjust to the ‘new normal’  mode of education.