Everything you do online generates data. Companies are collecting data about the websites you visit, your location, your activities online, and more. However, it’s not just marketers who are collecting these data: your school may be gathering information about you as well. There are steps you can take to protect your data and only share information you are comfortable sharing.
What Data Do Colleges Collect, and Why?
Educational institutions collect academic and personal data about students ranging from enrollment numbers, grades, and measures of student growth to demographics like age, gender, and economic status. They also gather data like class attendance, extracurriculars, and engagement. Colleges use this information in predictive analytics to improve things like enrollment, retention, and the student experience.
Most students have no concerns about colleges using their academic, financial, and behavioural data. However, they are uncomfortable about schools gathering information about their location and activities online. Many also find it unacceptable when colleges share data with third parties.
Check the Data Policy for Your College
Your college undoubtedly has a data policy. If you’re like most students, though, you won’t have read it. Searching for this policy is the first step toward protecting your data. Unfortunately, it could be difficult to locate.
Look on the webpage for the information technology department at your school to see if there’s a link to the data policy. If not, try using a search engine — make sure you search for the student data privacy policy rather than the website privacy policy.
Once you’ve found the privacy policy, check for some key information. A good student data policy will specify what are acceptable and unacceptable types of data to collect. It will also have a list of third parties that use the data and explain how students can opt out. Finally, it will mention how the college monitors for compliance and trains staff as well as the consequences for non-compliance.
Opt Out
You can use the information you find to stop your college from sharing particular kinds of data, such as your coursework, grades, and directory information (like your name, major, and attendance dates). There may be forms you can use to opt out. Alternatively, you could download the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on.
Avoid Public WiFi Networks Whenever Possible
There may be times when it’s necessary or just convenient to use public WiFi. However, you should never access any financial information or sensitive personal information when connected to one of these networks. Plus, stick to only encrypted websites. If you need to use the WiFi network on campus, be aware that your college will be collecting data about your internet activity.
Choose the Right VPN
You should use a virtual private network (VPN) all the time — not just when using public WiFi. This changes your IP address to ensure no one can connect you to your activity online. However, it’s important to choose a reputable VPN that won’t collect your data itself or make your internet connection unbearably slow and will maximize security. Check reviews to find a good option.
Keep Your Accounts Safe
Set strong passwords for all your accounts by using a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Since it’s important to avoid repeating passwords, use a password manager. This way, you won’t need to remember countless unique passwords.
You can keep your accounts extra secure by using two-factor authentication. This means that, along with your username and password, you’ll provide additional information to access your accounts. This additional information could be through a key fob, a one-time passcode you receive through a text message or as a push notification to your device, biometric information, or a software token.
One more way to protect your data is to live somewhere with a secure internet connection instead of relying on your campus WiFi. An alternative to Fleming College residence is Severn Court. Our all-inclusive rent covers your fully-furnished suite, utilities, and ultra-high-speed internet. You’ll still be living just a short walk from your classes, but you’ll have the privacy you need to feel comfortable. Apply for a lease now.
