NCERT issues cyber security norms for teachers, parents

New Delhi: In detailed cyber-security guidelines issued to schools and parents by the NCERT, only authorised people will be allowed to access computer labs and the use of USBs has been banned.

In order to promote safe, legal, and ethical use of internet by students, the National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT) has sent these guidelines to all  schools clearly defining the role of teachers and parents.

The steps include blocking pop-ups and keeping a check on appearance of unfamiliar icons on the desktop.

Moreover, the teachers have been advised to monitor students for behavioural changes and difference in their attitude.

“The students should be taught not to engage or argue with cyber bullies as it might encourage even worse behaviour. They should use the built-in filters to prevent further harassment through e-mails or instant messaging by cyber bullies. The students need to be told that they should never meet people they have known online and should not do anything online, which is not preferred to be done in the presence of others,” the guidelines read.

The instructions further added that students should not log in as someone else to read their e-mails or mess up with their online profiles; attempt to infect or try to make someone else’s computer unusable and not download any attachments from an unknown source as they may contain viruses.

The council has asked the schools to introduce courses and activities for the students and teachers on major aspects of cyber security and safety.

“The schools should advocate, model and teach safe, legal, and ethical use of digital information and technology; promote and model responsible social interaction related to the use of technology and information; celebrate Cyber Security Week and conduct activities to create awareness through cyber clubs,” it said.