Hiking and camping can be a great way to enjoy a break from the hustle of daily life. However, remote areas may have limited or no cell reception, which can create safety concerns. In many ways, we have come to rely on the internet for communication, so being without internet access can be dangerous.

You can easily get lost while hiking or camping if you don't have a good way to share your location. So, if you're planning to explore remote areas, ensure you are aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe.

Preparing for an outdoor excursion can be key to a safe and successful experience. Knowing what to do when you get lost or run into trouble can be the difference between life and death. Before you go, make sure you are properly prepared if you happen to lose cell signal along the way.

Make sure someone knows where you are

When going on a hike or exploring in a park, it's critical to let someone know where you are and when you plan to return. This can help if you get lost, as someone will know where to look for you if you don’t come home at the predetermined time. You can either talk to your family or friends or contact park rangers to inform them of your plan. Make sure to share your detailed route with your contacts so they can easily track your location — even without cell service.

Use maps and a compass

Printing out maps of hiking trails, parks, and general area topography can help hikers and campers avoid getting lost, especially without access to a phone. Learning how to use a compass can also help you keep your bearings. Compasses use the Earth's magnetic field to orient themselves in the cardinal directions — north, south, east, and west. By understanding how to use a compass, you can always know which way is home, even if you're lost in the wilderness without internet access.

Research cell reception

When camping or hiking, it is important to understand the area's potential Wi-Fi availability and cell service in national parks. Although both are not always guaranteed, doing pre-trip research can be helpful. For example, checking the campground website or contacting the park directly can give you a good idea of what to expect.

However, before connecting to any public Wi-Fi network while on vacation, it is crucial to know the risks. These networks can be vulnerable to hackers looking to steal personal information or passwords. This is why it is always best to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) while on public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts all internet traffic and can help protect your data from being compromised. You will be safer using public Wi-Fi in lieu of cellular data when you have a VPN installed.

Also, ensure that your service provider will help protect your privacy by providing a secure connection and keeping your account safe from fraud so you can focus on enjoying your time away from home. Understanding the most important wireless issues and how to avoid them by taking precautions can help you have a safe and relaxing trip.

It is also important to protect your physical devices in a public area. Keeping your devices in a secure place, like a backpack or carrying case, can help reduce the risk of them being stolen. If they’re stolen, you’ll most definitely be without cell service. All of these data security tips are important to consider as you prepare to take your phone camping or hiking. Many people use their cell phones for emergencies, so preparing your mobile data security beforehand is crucial when time may be tight and considerations like this fall by the wayside.

Pack appropriately

When camping or hiking, it is always crucial to pack well. This is especially true when venturing into the wilderness with the possibility of losing cell signal or becoming lost. Make sure to pack the appropriate supplies. These include items like food, clothing, and tools.

Food is one of the most important items to pack. You must ensure that you have enough food to last for the duration of your trip. In addition, you should pack items that are calorie-rich and easy to digest. Trail mix, granola bars, and dried fruit are all excellent options.

Another critical item to pack is clothing. You need to have clothes that will keep you warm and dry in all types of weather. In case you get wet or dirty, it's a good idea to bring extra clothes with you.

Finally, it is essential to pack the proper tools. This includes a knife, flashlight, lighter, and solar-powered cell phone charger, so you can keep your phone powered in case of any emergencies. These items can come in handy in a variety of situations. However, it would be best if you refrained from overpacking so you are not carrying too much weight.

Learn simple navigation techniques

Knowing simple navigation techniques can help prevent dangerous situations from occurring. For example, there are alternative navigation methods, like the shadow tip method, the watch method, and the observation of tree growth patterns. These can help you reach your destination safely without access to a GPS.

The shadow tip method is a way of using shadows to determine your location. To use this strategy, mark the tip of the shadow with a stone or twig. This mark represents the west. The shadow's tip will move slightly after about 10 to 15 minutes. At this point, also mark the shadow's tip. Then draw a straight line through the two marks. You are positioned to face north by standing with the first mark to your left and the second mark to your right.

The watch method is another way of determining your location using the sun. To use this method, lay a watch evenly and adjust its hour hand with the course of the sun. The center point between the arrangement of the sun with the hour hand and the 12 o'clock position on the dial roughly shows you which direction is south.

Tree growth patterns are another way to determine your location. Trees can be used to find north and south by looking at their growth patterns. Trees growing more on one side than another indicate a specific direction. For example, their branches can grow where they can get the most sun. This means that there will be more branches on the south-facing side of a tree.

A growing number of devices are beginning to use satellite technology for communication through devices such as phones and watches. This technology provides many advantages over traditional cellular networks, including increased coverage area and improved reliability in rural and remote areas. Additionally, satellite-based communications are not subject to the same congestion and signal interference as traditional cellular networks, making them ideal for emergencies.

Use a satellite phone or watch

A satellite phone or watch can be a lifesaver if you are in an emergency situation without a signal. Satellite phones connect to a network of orbiting satellites, providing coverage in even the most remote areas. Satellite watches use similar technology but are smaller and more lightweight, making them easier to carry on your person.

Bring a satellite GPS

A satellite GPS device can help you avoid getting lost when hiking with no cell reception because it does not rely on cell phone towers. Instead, it uses satellites in orbit around Earth to calculate your location. This can be helpful when you are hiking or camping in a remote area and do not have access to a cell signal.

Hiking safety is extremely important, especially if you are exploring a remote area without a cell signal. By following the suggestions above, you will have the knowledge and tools necessary to help stay safe in any situation.

Social media is a great way to use the internet to share travel and vacation experiences with family and friends. As such, many travelers use their social media more than usual on trips away from home. However, it is important to keep in mind that maintaining your privacy and the security of your social media accounts is often more difficult when you are traveling. 

Additionally, it will be more important than ever to stay alert, keep an eye on your devices and protect information related to account logins. Savvy travelers will also review information such as privacy, safety and security policies related to their various accounts and devices so that they are aware of their options if they encounter a security issue while traveling.

Luckily, there are many steps that you can personally take in preparation for your trip and throughout the duration of your travels to protect your accounts and avoid scams. As mentioned, it is not only vital to be wary of how you use your social media before and during travel but also how you manage your accounts and devices in general.

Keeping your accounts and data safe while on a trip requires both proactive precautions as well as ongoing vigilance throughout the trip. Considerations in both these realms include deciding what platforms you will be sharing information on and securing those platforms. It will also be important to fully understand how these platforms operate. 

Don’t overshare

Social media is accessible to virtually anyone and, therefore, it can be used by bad actors to track your movements and activities. As such, it is not advisable to widely share on social media where you intend to be and when you intend to be there. In addition to individual activities, it is not a good idea to let your wider social media audience know when you are leaving for a trip and when you are intending to be back. 

If many people know when you are going to be at certain places, they could use the opportunity to follow you or keep tabs on you. Additionally, if people know when you are going to be away from home, they could use the opportunity to stake out your home or even find a way to enter your home undetected. When you are traveling, in general, you are typically more susceptible to scams due to a variety of factors such as uncertainty of local norms, increased stress and urgency and greater use of public services and areas. 

Check location settings

Typically, it is best to disable location-reporting settings on social media apps and avoid checking in at specific locations. You will often be able to toggle automatic location reporting using settings on various social media apps. Beyond that, many options that allow you to “check in” require you to manually input the location, so it is best to avoid doing so. As previously mentioned, letting people know where you are going to be and when you are going to be there could allow bad actors to track your movements more easily. 

Don’t tag photos

Another way of inadvertently notifying potential bad actors that you are away on a vacation is through tagging or being tagged in photos. In addition to not tagging your own photos, it is best to configure your social media settings to require a review of all photo tags. You can also ask friends and family not to tag you in photos, but it is best not to entirely rely on this method as it isn’t foolproof. Reviewing all tags is simply an additional precaution that can further reduce the chances that these tags will become public.

Don’t post identifying photos

It is important to keep photos related to identifying documents private. Try not to use them as social media content. By posting photos of passports, plane or train tickets, official identification or other travel documents, you could inadvertently give bad actors the ability to impersonate you through various channels.

Government-issued photos are often used to confirm access to various accounts and services and, therefore, such photos can be used to gain access to sensitive information or illegally utilize services. This can be particularly easy for cyber criminals if there are options to confirm identity digitally, as a human will not need to compare their own face to the offered, stolen identification.

As a result of such interference, you could find your accounts drained, be otherwise defrauded or accidentally abet illegal activities. For similar reasons, it is important to not share any other information from your identifying documentation or travel documents either.

While it is not typically a good idea to let the wider public know when you are going on a trip, it can be very helpful to ensure that trusted family, friends or neighbors are aware of it. Although, you should take care to tell them privately rather than over social media. If a trusted friend or family member is aware of your trip, they can not only attend to things while you are away but also keep an eye out for anything suspicious. Furthermore, if anything alerts you to something suspicious, like a notification about movement in your home, you can ask your friends or family members to check in on the situation.

In addition to specific measures for staying secure on social media, it’s important to keep up with standard smartphone security measures. Remember to:

• Avoid sharing your personal information.
• Be wary of bad actors that may be impersonating institutions such as banks or utility companies.
• Reach out directly to institutions in order to confirm suspicious activity.
• Use passwords or other authentication measures to protect your phone and accounts.
• Only download applications from reliable online stores. 
• Always back up your data.
• Always log out of payment portals after you have made payments on a website.
• Be cautious of using public Wi-Fi networks.
• Do your best to rely primarily on trusted internet networks. 
• Make sure that your device is on a protection plan.

In short, whenever you travel you should be wary of dangers related to device security and take more substantial protective measures. Additionally, if you suspect that you may have been hacked or otherwise exposed to the work of bad actors, you should take appropriate response measures immediately.

As the internet has grown, remote work has become an increasingly popular option for employees. According to research compiled by Zippia, 26% of workers in the United States are now working remotely in 2022, and that percentage is only expected to rise in the coming years.

This rise in remote work is due, in part, to the internet's ability to open up new possibilities for what a work site can be. For example, it's now possible to take a "workcation" and combine vacation time with productive work.

A workcation is a vacation where you also take some time to work. This may involve working from a coffee shop or a coworking space in the city you're visiting or setting up a temporary office in your hotel room. The goal of a workcation is to get away from your normal routine while still being able to stay productive.

The rise in popularity of working vacations has made it easier than ever to combine relaxation and productivity. With the right approach, you can enjoy the benefits of a traditional holiday while also getting some work done. Here are a few suggestions to help make the most of your workcation.

Before you book your tickets, make sure that your company is OK with you taking a workcation. Some companies may have policies against working abroad or require advance notice for working remotely.

If your company does allow workcations, find out what the expectations are. Are you expected to be available during regular business hours? Will you be expected to check in regularly? Knowing the expectations upfront will help you plan your trip and stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.

Setting expectations about your workcation upfront is essential if you're traveling with family or friends. Explain that you'll be working during certain hours and let them know what type of work you'll do. This will help them understand why you need some alone time and avoid potential conflict.

It is also helpful to set some ground rules, such as no work after 6 PM or no work on weekends. This will help you enjoy your trip while still getting your important work done. And, if you're traveling with young children, finding childcare may be necessary so you can focus on work without distractions.

One of the challenges of a workcation is that it can be easy to let your work schedule slide. With all the new sights and sounds, taking a few more breaks or pushing back your work hours can be tempting.

To stay productive, it's crucial to keep a rigid schedule. Set aside specific hours for working and stick to them. Match your work hours to your company's time zone. This will make staying in touch with colleagues and meeting deadlines easier.

If you're struggling to focus, try using tech tools to block out distractions and help you stay on task. For example, if you use a task manager app to track your to-dos, you can feel confident that you are completing the most important projects first. Similarly, if you use a Pomodoro timer to break up your workday into 25-minute chunks, you can be sure that you are taking short breaks and getting up from your desk regularly. These apps and tools can help maintain productivity.

When selecting a remote work vacation spot, it is essential to ensure that you can maintain your work-life balance while you are away. To do this, research the availability of Wi-Fi access from anywhere in the area or the best mobile hotspot plans and hardware that will allow you to stay productive while you are on the road.

It is also important to have a backup plan for when internet access is not available. This could include downloading work-related files to your laptop or having a printed copy of your to-do list. By being prepared, you can reduce disruptions and increase productivity.

Sufficient speed

Having a high internet speed is key when using the internet for web browsing and file transfers. For general web browsing, you need at least 0.33 Mbps upload speed. You'll want a minimum download speed of 5 Mbps for file sharing. And for high-definition video, you will need at least 4 Mbps. Remember that these are just recommended speeds, and your specific bandwidth needs may differ for your business or online work.

Stable connection

Consider how you can stay connected abroad when looking for a destination and accommodations. A reliable connection is important for staying productive. If you are frequently losing your internet connection, it can affect things like meetings, calls, and work done in the cloud. This can cause you to fall behind on your work and miss important deadlines. To avoid this, ensure you have a stable connection and use a good internet service provider.

Staying secure

Unsecured networks do not require passwords or other security measures, so they can be easily accessed by anyone who happens to be using them. This means that any information you send or receive on this type of network could be at risk of being stolen or intercepted.

Here are a few ways to help protect yourself as a remote worker while using an unsecured network:

• Make sure you only connect to networks you trust. If you're unsure whether it is secure, don't connect.
• Check if any sensitive information is encrypted before you send it. This will help protect it from being intercepted by others.
• Be careful about what information you share on social media when traveling.
• Don't give out your passwords or other sensitive information, and be cautious about the websites you visit so you can prevent hackers from having access to your device.

Remember that choosing your service provider is also essential since they play a significant role in your account security and privacy. Your consumer safety should always be a priority, so research to find a reputable internet provider before you travel.

Following these tips can increase your chances of having a productive and enjoyable workcation. With the proper preparation, you can stay connected while you're away from the office. And by doing so, you can feel refreshed and prepared to tackle any challenges when working remotely while on vacation.

In a world where nearly everything is online, your online reputation can make or break you. From job hunting to networking, what people find when they Google your name can either help you or hinder you.

Eighty-five percent of customers place as much trust in online reviews as personal recommendations. Whether you're a business, brand or individual, you must ensure your online presence accurately reflects who you are — and the best way to do that is to take a proactive approach to online reputation management.

A professional online reputation is the sum of what is said or known about an individual online. It's the digital equivalent of a first impression; just like in real life, you only get one chance to make a good one. Your online reputation can be shaped by anything from your social media activity to online reviews, and anything else that appears when someone searches for your name online.

An online reputation isn't just for businesses either; it's also critical for:

• Students — A positive online reputation is essential for getting into college and landing a good job after graduation. Monitoring your digital well-being for your mental health and online reputation management is key for your success in school and later in life.
• Professionals — A strong online reputation can mean the difference between getting hired or being passed over for a job.

Ultimately, a good online reputation may open doors to new career opportunities, can help you network and build relationships, and may give you a competitive edge. Conversely, a negative online reputation can close doors, damage relationships, and make it difficult to achieve your goals.

A brand reputation is what people think of your business, product or service. It's the online equivalent of your company's offline reputation, built over time through interactions with customers, employees, partners and prospects. A personal online reputation is what people think of you as an individual. It's the online equivalent of your personal offline reputation, and it's built in much the same way — through interactions with others.

While brand and personal online reputation are different, they're also interconnected. This is especially true for small-business owners who are the representatives of their companies. It's essential to focus on your brand and personal online reputation to ensure they work together to help you achieve your goals.

Personal reputations

Every time you post on social media, interact with someone online or even have your name mentioned in a blog post, you're shaping your online reputation. And while you may not think much about it day-to-day, the cumulative effect of all these online interactions is your personal online reputation.

While this is similar to a professional online reputation, some key differences exist. A personal online reputation is:

• About you as an individual, not your business or brand.
• Often more difficult to control because you can't always control what others say or write about you online. Therefore, learning how to protect your online reputation in the social media age is critical.
• Usually more critical for individuals in the public eye, such as politicians, celebrities and business leaders.

However, even if you're not in the public eye, your online reputation is still important as it can impact your personal and professional life.

Professional reputations

A professional reputation is what people think of you in a professional capacity. It's built through interactions with colleagues, clients and others in your industry.

Like a personal online reputation, a professional online reputation is shaped by everything you do online — from the articles you write and the social media posts you make, to the comments you leave and the emails you send.

While a professional online reputation is similar to a personal online reputation, there are some key differences. A professional online reputation is:

• Not about you but your professional capacity as a business or brand.
• Often more important as it can directly impact your career.
• Difficult to control because you can't always control what others say or write about you online.

However, your online reputation can have a direct impact on your professional online reputation — and vice versa.

Brand reputations

Learning how to manage your brand’s online reputation effectively is a must in the digital age. A brand reputation is what people think of your business, product or service and is built through good and bad customer interactions.

Your brand reputation is affected when a customer leaves a review, posts on social media or even mentions your brand online.

While a brand's online reputation is similar to personal and professional online reputations, there are differences. Your brand's online reputation:

• Is about your business, product or service — not you.
• Can directly impact your bottom line.
• Often signifies trustworthiness to customers.

While a personal and professional online reputation are both important, a good brand reputation is equally essential.

The internet has become an inevitable part of life. It's an excellent resource for finding information, communicating with others and even conducting business. But it can also be a minefield when managing your reputation. For example, in 2020, 87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses before making a purchase.

Without a professional online reputation, you could be missing out on opportunities for advancement in your career or open jobs that are a perfect match for your skill set. Additionally, online reviews can impact your business's bottom line — one study found that a one-star increase on Yelp could mean a 5 to 9% increase in revenue. 

Therefore, it's best to expand your professional online reputation; for example, you could create a successful affiliate marketing program for your business to attract new customers and create content that promotes your products or services.

If you've made a mistake online, the first step is to take responsibility for your actions. This means owning up to what you did, apologizing and making amends. Of course, you can't erase your mistakes, but you can work to improve your online reputation by being proactive about it, such as:

• Focusing on the present and future: Don't dwell on your past mistakes, focus on making things right in the present and being mindful of your online interactions in the future.
• Creating new content: Once you've taken responsibility for your actions and apologized, start creating new content that paints you in a positive light. This could be blog posts, articles or even social media posts that show your expertise and highlight your attributes.
• Engaging with others online: Seek out conversations related to your industry and get involved. Showcase your knowledge and be a positive voice in online communities.

Likewise, there are several tools and resources available to help you manage your online reputation, such as:

• Google Alerts — This free tool allows you to track your name's or brand's online mentions.
• Mention — This free online tool is similar to Google Alerts, but it allows you to track online mentions of your name or brand across various social media platforms.
• BrandYourself — A paid online reputation management tool that offers a variety of services to help you improve and monitor your online presence.

Many online reputation management (ORM) services can also help you monitor and improve your reputation. These services can be costly, but may be worth the investment.

You may have legal options if you believe your online reputation has been damaged on purpose based on false information. For example, if you've been the victim of defamation, you may be able to sue for damages. However, these cases can be complex and expensive, so it's important to speak with an attorney before taking legal action.

Protecting your peace and reputation is a full-time job, but there are things you can do to minimize the risk of reputation damage.

• Be thoughtful about what you post online: Once something is online, it's there forever. Think twice before posting anything that could be construed as negative or unprofessional.
• Regularly Google yourself: By Googling your name regularly, you can stay on top of what's being said about you and take quick action if necessary.
• Monitor your social media accounts: Be sure to set your privacy settings as high as possible on all social media platforms, and be careful about who you friend or follow.
• Be wary of account security and fraud claims: Be sure to choose strong passwords for all your online accounts, and look for signs of fraud or identity theft.

Moreover, it's essential to look for the warning signs of a negative reputation. These can include:

• A decrease in business.
• An increase in negative mentions.
• Less engagement on your social media accounts.
• More unsubscribes from your email list.

If you see any of these red flags, take action immediately to mitigate the damage and protect your small business's good name.

By taking steps to improve and protect your online presence, you can safeguard your reputation both now and in the future.

There are many reasons why seniors can benefit from embracing technology. Staying connected to friends and family is easier than ever with platforms like Skype and Facebook. Additionally, the internet provides seniors with a wealth of information and resources at their fingertips. Therefore, teaching seniors to use technology can help them stay connected and give them the tools they need to lead healthier, more informed lives.

Various tech tools can be valuable to older generations, from online banking and shopping to more complex medical and home care devices. Not to mention the inclusion of such features as 5G connectivity, which is crucial for senior living, for health and safety reasons.

Seniors need the opportunity to learn about and engage with technology. After all, if they're not using tech, they're at risk of being left behind by an ever-growing digital world. Not only for personal use, but technology has taken over professional and educational settings as well. By understanding and monitoring their digital well-being, seniors can take advantage of all the opportunities and resources the Internet offers.

Though technology improves the lives of seniors in several ways, there are some considerations regarding their digital safety and well-being. Scams and cybercrime are always a risk when going online, and such schemes often target seniors. The American Journal of Public Health estimates that around 5% of America's senior population falls victim to fraud yearly. This translates into a multibillion-dollar industry preying on seniors.

Scams come in all forms, from phishing emails and phone calls to fake websites and social media profiles. Seniors must know how to identify these threats and report them to the proper authorities.

Online scams

When it comes to online scams, there are a few that target seniors specifically. The first is the grandparent scam, where a criminal contacts someone pretending to be their grandchild in need of money. This is usually through text, email or social media, and the scammer will use personal information about the victim's loved ones to make the request seem more legitimate.

Another common online scam is the fake antivirus software scheme. In this case, a criminal will send an email or pop-up message claiming the computer is infected with a virus. They'll then offer to sell bogus antivirus software to fix the problem. Unfortunately, this software does nothing to protect the computer and instead gives the scammer access to their personal information.

To avoid such schemes, seniors should:

• Never click on links or attachments from someone they don't know.
• Be cautious of unexpected messages or calls related to their computer's security.
• Understand wireless consumer safety issues when using mobile devices or laptops to go online.

With more information about the risks associated with going online, seniors can better protect themselves.

Phone scams

In addition to online scams, there are also phone scams that target seniors. In the Medicare scam, a fraudster calls pretending to be from Medicare or another health insurance provider. They'll try to get personal information like a Social Security number or bank account number to commit identity theft or to bill the senior for bogus services.

To avoid such scams, seniors should:

• Never give out their personal information to someone they don't know.
• Ask for the caller's name, company and contact information.
• Hang up if the caller refuses to answer questions or becomes agitated.

Seniors can be easy targets without knowledge of these scams or how to block them. Therefore, it's best to provide them with information and tips on how to identify an account hack and how to use account security features.

Misusing tech

Seniors may unknowingly download malware onto their computers by clicking on a malicious attachment or ad. They may also accidentally share personal information online, leading to identity theft.

Likewise, many seniors might be unfamiliar with how to use social media safely. They may friend or follow people they don't know, which could make them vulnerable to scammers and cybercriminals. 

It's critical to educate seniors about the dangers of misusing technology, as well as how to use it safely. Here are a few tips:

• Only friend or follow people you know and trust on social media.
• Use strong passwords and never reuse them.
• Keep your software and antivirus programs up to date.

By following these simple tips, they can stay safe when using new technology.

While technology isn't always intuitive, it may benefit seniors. Tech tools can help seniors stay connected, stay active and engaged, and age in place.

• Fitbit: Wearable devices track fitness data like steps taken, heart rate and burned calories.
• Amazon Echo: A hands-free speaker seniors can use to play music, get weather and traffic updates, and set alarms.
• iPads: Tablets seniors can use to stay connected with friends and family, play games, read books or work.
• GPS trackers: Devices that can be worn or placed in a car to help loved ones keep track of a senior's location.
• Screen readers: Software programs that read text aloud, which can be helpful for seniors with vision impairments.

There are many other tech tools available to seniors; the key is to help them find the right one for their needs.

Emergency dialers

Emergency dialers are devices in pendant or bracelet form, with which you can call for help in the event of a fall or other emergency. They typically have a large button that can be easily pressed, and they're often equipped with GPS tracking so responders can locate the senior in need. A few on the market, such as MobileHelp and Medical Guardian, can be valuable tools for those who live alone or have health concerns.

Communication tools

There are many communication tools available to seniors, such as:

• Skype: A video chat program to stay in touch with family and friends.
• FaceTime: A video chat program to make calls from an iPhone or iPad.
• WhatsApp: A messaging app that sends text messages, voice messages and video calls.

Aside from apps, there are phone plans and devices for seniors that can be tailored to their needs.

Community tools

Many community tools are available to seniors to keep them connected to their community. Some examples include:

• Transportation apps: Apps like Uber and Lyft can help seniors get around town without driving.
• Social media: Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can help seniors stay connected with their friends, family and community.
• Community apps: Apps like Nextdoor can help seniors stay up-to-date on what's happening in their neighborhoods.

Beyond these examples, many other resources and support tools are available.

Learning new technology can be daunting for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for seniors. That's why it's best to have a support group. A support group allows them to ask questions, talk to peers and get help when necessary.

Local classes

The local library or community center may offer classes on using technology. These can be a great way for seniors to learn about new devices and software in a safe and supportive environment. Likewise, local tech stores may offer classes or workshops on using specific devices, such as iPhones or iPads.

Connecting online

There are many online resources available to help seniors with technology. Some of these include:

• Online support groups: There are many groups for seniors to connect with others going through the same thing.
• Tutorials: Countless online tutorials help seniors learn about technology. A quick search on YouTube or Google will reveal many helpful videos.
• Websites: Many websites offer tips and advice for seniors learning about technology.

Sharing personal experience

One of the best ways to get grandparents to use smartphones or computers is to show them how to use them in their everyday lives. Try sharing your personal experience with technology and how it has made your life easier. This will help them understand how technology can benefit them. For example:

• Send a photo of the grandkids: Show them how to use their phone or computer to send photos of their grandchildren.
• Check the weather: Help seniors understand how to use their devices to check the weather forecast.
• Get directions: Show them how to use their device to get turn-by-turn directions.

These are just a few examples, but the possibilities are endless. The key is to find ways that technology can help make their lives easier.

Sometimes known as a ‘digital shadow’ or an ‘electronic footprint’, a digital footprint is the traceable data and activity a user leaves on the internet. You add to your digital footprint whenever you visit a website, send an email, submit an online form, or complete another trackable action online.

Digital footprints play a large role in establishing your online reputation, which can be important for both personal and professional reasons. In the wrong hands, your digital footprint can lead to unwanted cybercriminal activity. Hackers will use information from your digital footprint to illegally access an online profile, bank, or other databases.

Protecting your digital footprint first means understanding where it comes from.

Digital footprints began to exist soon after the dawn of the internet. At first, a user’s digital footprint was relatively simple — it could include an IP address, browsing history, uploaded files, online messaging, and any other data they might leave online.

The modern digital footprint grew more complex as the internet evolved. Today, your digital footprint might include a wide variety of items, many not available when the internet first went public in 1991. Your digital footprint today can include online reviews, digital images, reactions to online posts, and uploaded videos — all items not part of the original website browsing experience.

Digital footprints became more complex as the internet grew. Users would eventually contribute three major types of information to their digital footprints: personal data, professional data, and financial data.

The release of public social media — beginning in 1995 with Classmates.com — further deepened the complexity of a user’s digital footprint. The release of Friendster in 2002 introduced features like online dating, which quickly drove users to release even more personal information online. In 2003, the newly-released MySpace saw users add music tastes to rapidly growing digital footprints.

That same year, former PayPal chief operating officer Reid Hoffman would release LinkedIn alongside a small development team. LinkedIn largely introduced users’ professional information into their digital footprints. For the first time, business professionals could digitally look for jobs, update resumes, and network with business contacts from their computers.

Ongoing internet evolution also led to the popularity of both online banking and online shopping. A rise in e-commerce websites allowed customers to shop remotely. Improvements in online banking fed confidence in online shopping, which led consumers to contribute their financial information — including account and routing numbers, credit card information, PINs, and passwords — to ever-growing digital footprints.

Digital footprints offer some real advantages to internet users. In many cases, your digital footprint can create a more personalized internet experience.

Your internet history and browsing preferences represent a large part of your digital footprint. Advertisers often use this information to show you advertisements for products and services you might be interested in. In the same way, search engines might tailor results according to your browsing habits, to deliver the results you’re looking for.

Your location, and location history, are also part of your digital footprint. Google Maps and other navigation programs will deliver food and travel recommendations based on the places you like to visit.

Personal and professional social media platforms also use information in your digital footprint to improve your navigation experience. For example, LinkedIn offers a ‘People You May Know’ feature to introduce you to new business contacts, helping you strengthen your business portfolio. Similarly, Facebook will suggest new ‘friends’ based on shared connections.

Digital footprints can provide value for internet users. However, your digital footprint can also offer some disadvantages. Today, 81% of people believe that the risks of data collection outweigh the benefits.

Sometimes, brands are known to collect information without a user’s permission. And with 70% of organizations increasing the amount of consumer data they collect, this means more opportunities for data misuse. The same KPMG indicates that 30% of consumers are no longer willing to share their personal data for any reason, given concerns about internet safety.

Growing digital footprints can also create cybersecurity concerns. Cybercriminals today use a variety of strategies to access users’ online information; often, hackers gain access to users’ online profiles through information users share. For example, hackers might gain access to a user’s online bank account by answering their security questions with answers sourced from their digital footprint.

In some cases, a user’s digital footprint can also damage their reputation, or lead to the release of information they wanted to keep private.

Your digital footprint might contain several different types of data. Typically, this information contributes to one of two data categories: an active footprint or a passive footprint.

Active footprints

Users develop their active footprint whenever they knowingly contribute information online. You might answer a survey online to enter a contest or fill out a form to schedule a dentist appointment. Users can also create an active footprint by sending an email or online message or installing cookies on their devices.

In many cases, a user will only contribute to their active footprint when they know their data will be used for a certain purpose. For example, users trust that their doctor won’t sell their medical information to advertising firms.

Social media is one of the most popular ways users build their active footprints. To preserve privacy while using social media, many users will limit the type of information they post.

Passive footprints

Internet users often contribute to their digital footprint without knowing it — which contributes to a passive digital footprint. A passive digital footprint is any data you leave behind online without knowing it. For example, a website might save your computer’s IP address, or even your browsing history, without your explicit knowledge.

Your passive footprint can also grow when a website, or a social media platform, collects more information than you expect. This can occur when your social media likes, comments, or shares are used to profile you as a target for future advertisements.

Recent years have seen increased interest in data privacy, as consumers grow aware of how companies track them. In the past year alone, state legislatures proposed or passed at least 27 online privacy bills to protect personal data rights.

Consumer response to digital footprints is mixed. Some users respect digital footprints for their ability to deliver a customized digital experience. Others appreciate how their footprint can positively contribute to networking or professional growth.

By contrast, many consumers don’t appreciate the ways that brands obtain information from their digital footprints. More than 50% of users have decided not to use a product because of related safety concerns.

Today, many businesses use data-mining processes — and entire data science teams — to analyze consumer data. They use this information to curate customers’ online experiences through targeted marketing. Other brands will even sell customers’ personal information to third-party advertisers.

Younger consumers in particular should look to reduce their digital footprint. For example, 45% of schools offer each student a computer; an additional 15% of schools allow students to take those machines home with them. Students who use technology for education should also prioritize data privacy, to maximize digital well-being.

Your digital footprint can also lead to cybersecurity risks that threaten user privacy. Hackers today have access to massive amounts of personal information, available online and through social media. They can use this information to access consumers’ bank information, social profiles, or other sensitive data.

It’s important to reduce your active and passive digital footprints — particularly if you’re not trying to brand yourself professionally or scale a data-driven business.

Here are a few ways to appropriately reduce your digital footprint:

• Close old or unused email accounts;
• Browse the internet in incognito mode to avoid cookies;
• Unsubscribe from unwanted email newsletters;
• Limit the information you share on social media;
• Keep your personal email address private;
• Regularly update your browser and privacy settings;
• Use virtual private networks (VPN) to stop web browsers from accessing your IP address and other data;
• Set age-based internet safety restrictions for children;
• Regularly update passwords used online.

This doesn’t mean ending all internet use; instead, it means limiting the information you willingly share online.

Consumers of all ages deserve a healthy relationship with the technology they use. One of the ways to improve your digital well-being is by optimizing your digital footprint and reducing the information you share to an appropriate minimum.

Many scammers try to prey on the trusting nature of businesses, taking advantage of their desire to do what's best for their customers. Others take a more calculated approach, exploiting weaknesses in the business and financial systems to make off with significant sums of money. 

Dark Reading reports that 83% of companies fell prey to a successful email phishing attack in 2021, which was a 46% increase from 2020. Businesses must be vigilant at all times if they want to protect themselves from becoming victims.

Fortunately, many resources are available to help companies stay alert for signs of fraud. With diligence and caution, businesses can foil scammers' attempts and focus on growth instead of worrying about cybercriminals.

Many different industries are targeted by scammers. For example, finance, retail and subscription-based software businesses were at the highest risk of phishing scams in 2022. Given the size and profitability of businesses in these industries, it's not surprising that scammers would focus their efforts on them.

Finance

The most commonly targeted industry is the finance sector. Financial information is a prized commodity for criminals. Scams often involve soliciting financial information or money directly from individuals within organizations.

Subscription-based software companies

Another common target for scammers is subscription-based software companies. These businesses rely heavily on customer loyalty and long-term relationships to keep their revenues steady and maintain profitability. They can be vulnerable to schemes such as phishing attacks or malware that hijacks user accounts.

Retail

Retail is also often a target for scammers. This may be due to the high volume of transactions within this industry and the wealth of individual data collected from customers at each point of sale. With so many transactions being carried out daily in stores across the country, there are ample opportunities for scammers looking to steal sensitive information or generate fraudulent purchases.

While the scale of wrongdoing might differ, small businesses can face many of the same challenges as larger organizations when preventing and detecting fraud. Because small companies may not have the resources that a large enterprise has at their disposal, they may be more vulnerable to schemes from crooks who get past basic screening measures.

The key factor here is the difference in scale between large and small businesses. With fewer resources and people involved in financial decisions, small businesses may be more susceptible to manipulation by nefarious actors seeking to steal funds or obtain confidential information.

There are many different scam strategies scammers use to prey on innocent victims. These strategies vary based on the type of business or institution being targeted.

However, scammers typically use several common methods, such as posing as representatives from reputable organizations and using aggressive sales tactics. Additionally, phone scams and suspicious phone numbers often play a crucial role in many con schemes, as some people may trust phone calls more than other forms of communication.

Phishing

Phishing is a scam method that involves sending fraudulent emails or messages to obtain sensitive information from individuals or organizations. These messages often appear to be from legitimate sources, such as banks or other institutions. They trick recipients into responding with personal data, passwords and credit card info. The purpose of phishing is typically to enable identity theft or other forms of fraud.

There are several ways you can avoid phishers. One effective strategy is simply being aware of the dangers associated with sharing your personal information online and questioning any requests for sensitive data. Also, choosing strong and unique passwords can prevent scammers from gaining access to your accounts, even if they acquire your other login details through a phishing attack.

Likewise, antivirus software or other security tools can help detect and shut down malicious activity before it causes too much damage. Stay safe online by taking proactive measures and learning to tighten your account security and reporting fraud claims.

Robocalls

Robocalls are one of the biggest scams out there today. Scammers make automated calling to unsuspecting victims, usually in an attempt to steal personal information or trick people into sending money.

There are a few different ways robocall scammers try to trick their targets:

• Spoofing;
• IRS scams;
• Loan scams;
• Charity scams;
• Customer care scams.

Despite the cunning and sophisticated methods of these scammers, there are several ways you can avoid being targeted by robocall scams:

• Be wary of unsolicited calls, and never provide personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call yourself.
• Check your phone carrier's website regularly, as many companies alert customers when they spot a harmful scam or identify suspicious numbers.
• Invest in some call-blocking software for your phone or sign up for services that actively work to prevent unwanted robocalls from contacting you.

Social engineering

Social engineering is an often-used scam method in which criminals use psychological manipulation to convince people to give them sensitive information such as passwords, financial details or Social Security numbers. This scam works by preying on people's trust and sense of obligation — the scammers will target specific individuals or groups and use methods such as online impersonation or other forms of trickery to obtain information. Typical social engineering methods include:

• An email with a malicious attachment or link.
• A message pretending to be from a trusted source.
• A phone call or voicemail purporting to be from a legitimate organization.

While social engineering scams can be challenging to detect, there are some steps that you can take to avoid falling victim:

• Do not disclose sensitive information online or over the phone unless you are sure you are dealing with a legitimate organization or individual.
• Be wary of unexpected communication from people who claim to need your help or seem desperate for assistance. Never provide personal details unless you have verified that the source is legitimate.
• If you receive a suspicious email, do not open any attachments or click on any links unless you are positive they are safe.

Malware

Malware, or malicious software, is a class of computer programs designed to cause damage or harm to a user's system. These programs can be used for shady purposes, including stealing sensitive data and locking users out of their systems until they pay a ransom. To carry out these scams, scammers employ various techniques, such as fishing emails or text messages. These scammers try to trick users into downloading harmful software onto their devices by masquerading as legitimate entities like banks and government agencies.

Once the malware has been installed on the target system, it can exploit system vulnerabilities to steal valuable information from the user — such as passwords and credit card numbers — or lock the user out entirely until they pay a ransom.

Fortunately, there are several steps users can take to avoid falling victim to malware scams:

• Never download software from untrustworthy sources.
• Be vigilant when opening emails or following links on websites.
• Keep your systems up-to-date with the latest security patches and antivirus software.

By being aware of the most common types of scams and taking steps to safeguard your information, you can help ensure that your business remains safe from harm.

Traveling allows you to see new places, meet new people, try new foods and experience cultures different from your own. Traveling allows you to disconnect from your everyday life and explore the world at large while creating new opportunities for hands-on education.

Travel is rewarding, but it also presents a few risks. Travelers can fall victim to a number of travel-related scams, particularly if they’re in an unfamiliar environment. These scams often include the status of your travel documents, driving permits or hotel reservations, and can compromise your vacation if you’re not careful.

Though travel-related scams represent less than 1% of scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission in 2021, they still expose nearly 54,000 travelers per year to fraudulent activity.

Travel can be a risky activity, even if you take all necessary precautions. Travel often takes you to an unfamiliar environment, where you’re eating new food, meeting new people and staying in new places. A language barrier or currency exchange creates additional risks during travel, along with any travel-related stress you might experience.

Unfamiliar surroundings

Traveling to new places can create additional challenges, particularly when you’re unfamiliar with your surroundings. Many cities have areas to visit and areas to avoid. While locals are familiar with the area, tourists can accidentally visit, or travel through, areas associated with higher risk.

Unfamiliar surroundings can also create additional financial risks. For example, travelers may get tricked into buying tickets for free attractions. Some tourists also end up paying more than necessary to visit an attraction, or paying an excessive amount of money to travel from one place to the next.

Unfamiliar culture

Unfamiliar cultures can also make it easier for tourists to fall for scams. For example, unscrupulous businesses might try to take advantage of tourists by tacking on additional charges for a straightforward service.

Some scammers take advantage of high traffic to cultural locations. For example, a pickpocket or vendor scammer might spend time in a highly visited area, using the crowd to hide while stealing possessions from passersby

Stress from traveling

Travel-related stress is real. Between preparation, air travel, time zone changes and added financial burdens, travel can become an overwhelming experience.

Travel can often cause tourists to feel anxious or rushed. You might have a limited amount of time to see an attraction or spend time in a certain place. This anxiety, and the resulting fatigue, can create carelessness — which makes it easier for a scam to take place.

Sometimes, travelers can forget one or two details when preparing for a trip. For example, you might forget to confirm your international phone coverage before your trip begins. Overlooked details can create new opportunities for scams, particularly when travelers become desperate for food, transportation or a place to stay.

Tourists may run into a variety of different scams when traveling. Some scams take place in person, while others happen without the scammer ever making contact with the tourist. In all cases, travel scams can separate a traveler from their possessions and ruin an otherwise amazing vacation.

Phone scams

Scanners may perpetrate phone scams at any time, in any place — even before you begin to travel. Look out for phone calls that are threatening or desperate in nature. Phone scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to prevent travelers from thinking clearly. Other travel-related scams include offers for “free” vacations or robocalls promising “exclusive” vacation deals.

To avoid phone scams while traveling, take the time to confirm the proper phone numbers for the places you’ll visit and the services you’ll use. Research the legitimate phone numbers for hotels, airlines, car rental facilities and restaurants. Document the correct phone number for your bank, to prevent scam calls from suspicious or unconfirmed phone numbers.

It’s also important to follow general cell phone safety guidelines while traveling. This means uninstalling suspicious applications, clearing your browser history, erasing unnecessary data and updating your operating system before departing.

Stay on the lookout for signs that your device might be compromised by malware or another type of breach. If your device’s battery life suddenly drains, or you see unexplained charges to your phone bill, it might be time to assess your device. Excessive pop-up advertisements, spikes in mobile data usage and new apps on your phone can also mean the presence of malware.

Free Wi-Fi networks

While you’re traveling, free internet networks might seem incredibly convenient. They can allow you to communicate, access funding and even check the news while on the go. However, free Wi-Fi networks also create opportunities for scammers to access and exploit your personal information — and even your device itself.

Free Wi-Fi networks threaten consumer safety in several ways. Through man-in-the-middle attacks, unencrypted networks or malicious hotspots, attackers can use public internet access to steal users’ data.

Malware can also lock your files and prevent you from accessing your own data, at least until you pay a ransom to preserve your files. This type of malware — called ransomware — can also spread through public Wi-Fi access. Some ransomware is smart enough to identify weak points in an unsafe network, bypassing security protocols and obtaining access to your device’s administrative settings.

Scammers may also use free Wi-Fi to remotely monitor your device or send unnecessary software updates. Both of these techniques can result in a scammer compromising the privacy of your device and gaining access to the personal information saved inside.

Taxi scams

Unsuspecting travelers can also fall victim to a variety of different taxi scams. For example, dishonest taxi drivers might take advantage of your unfamiliarity with the area, and charge more than they should for a specific trip. In other cases, taxi drivers will take a longer-than-necessary route to inflate the fare. They might also cite an incorrect currency exchange rate to earn more per ride.

To prevent taxi scams, travelers should research travel routes before stepping into a driver’s vehicle. Take note of the distance between one destination and another, including any gratuity you might owe the driver. Point out when a driver turns down an unfamiliar, unnecessary street that you know will result in a higher price. Don’t be afraid to turn down a taxi driver who expects you to pay more than a fair price for a ride.

Fake tickets

Some travel-related expenses, like ticket purchases, are inevitable. You might need to purchase a ticket to participate in a tour, ride a bus or plane, see a show or witness a sporting event. Scammers know that travelers need tickets, and often sell fake or steeply inflated tickets to unknowing tourists.

The easiest way to avoid fake tickets is to purchase your tickets from reputable sources. Buy tickets directly from your transportation provider or event coordinator. These vendors are often insured against fraud and help create peace of mind when you’re purchasing tickets for your next vacation.

The metaverse is a big topic in the discourse over technology, our economy and the future of daily life. But for a subject garnering so much attention, it’s not always clear what people mean when they talk about “the metaverse.” In large part, that is because there is no single definition. However, the metaverse is here. And although the concept isn’t a new development, companies have more recently started to build out the necessary infrastructure so consumers can now experience the metaverse and all it has to offer.

It is widely held that a 1992 novel predicted the metaverse. Written by author Neal Stephenson, “Snow Crash” envisioned a world in which the metaverse succeeded the internet as we knew it, heavily integrating the immersion of virtual reality. Since then, works such as “Avatar” and “Ready Player One” have further built on and explored the concept of a more immersive augmented reality or an extension of the internet. However, the term “metaverse” has not always coincided with these imaginings.

The resurgence of this term can largely be attributed to marketing. The term has become a buzzword for companies hoping to innovate by developing VR technology. Most notably, Facebook Inc. announced the introduction of Meta — and officially changed its name from Facebook to Meta — in 2021. This move could position the company to lead the charge in defining this slightly hazy term.

To better understand the metaverse, it is important to understand some basic terms:

• Avatar: An avatar is a digital “body” or other representation that represents you in a digital space. Typically, to operate in the metaverse, you’ll need to create your digital avatar first.
• Augmented reality: Augmented reality application creates or displays digital additions to your physical space, such as a digital character superimposed on the area of a real room.
• Blockchain: Blockchain technology is a digital ledger that allows encrypted information to be shared across a decentralized network. 
• DAOs: A decentralized autonomous organization is a corporate entity based on community-managed software. 
• Decentralization: This is a procedure in which the management of an organization is distributed across nodes and users rather than controlled by a single person or entity.
• Digital marketplace: This is an online platform that facilitates commerce; more businesses want to succeed in the digital marketplace landscape to win over consumers and remain competitive.
• Digital twins: A digital twin is a digital counterpart or reproduction of a real space or object. One example is within the article, “How Digital Twin technology can enhance Aviation.” In this article, Rolls Royce discusses its digital twin jet engine, a precise virtual copy of a real engine that allows the company to simulate more tests under extreme conditions than a physical test engine would allow.  
• Digital wallet: This is an application that allows you to store and manage digital payment methods. 
• Extended reality: This is an umbrella term for any technology that allows for the combination of digital and real elements, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). 
• Interoperability: This refers to the ability of different computer systems to effectively share and process information. The future of the metaverse will largely depend on interoperability. 
• Liminal spaces: These are virtual spaces that multiple users can visit and occupy.
• Virtual reality: This describes any simulated environment or experience. 
• Web 3.0 (Web3): Web3 is a concept for a new iteration of the internet that will prioritize decentralization and the use of blockchain technology. 

Because the metaverse is evolving, important terminology for understanding it could very well change over time.

The metaverse is not a solid concept. Its definition largely depends on who you ask. However, the most common concept involves a decentralized, sweeping network of highly immersive virtual platforms and tools. 

The metaverse operates via extended reality, which includes virtual reality and augmented reality. With extended reality tools such as VR headsets, users can play games, attend virtual meetings, receive simulated training, run simulations to test new technologies and take part in new educational opportunities. And these are just a few of the metaverse’s applications.       

In its most idealized version, users would be able to move freely on the virtual network between different platforms with in-world “possessions” intact. In some cases, users would be able to travel virtually in the metaverse, visiting popular destinations around the world without leaving their homes. However, sometimes when someone refers to “a metaverse,” they may be speaking of a single immersive platform, such as a highly-immersive online game with virtual reality elements. 

Meanwhile, it is important to keep in mind that the metaverse is something that many technology companies are investing heavily in, hoping to benefit financially from its growth and use. 

The ways to monetize metaverse experiences are being explored, but possibilities include advertising (say, by gaming companies on VR video games) or using sponsored content, which is a primary means of making money on the internet today. Advertising already rules the landscape in social media apps like Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. 

As established, the metaverse is not yet a clearly defined concept. However, some typical characteristics of the metaverse as a concept include:

• Highly immersive environments and activities;
• Various elements of extended reality;
• Sweeping networks;
• High levels of interoperability;
• Use of a decentralized model;
• The presence of digital marketplaces;
• Highly-realistic interpersonal interactions.

Again, as the metaverse evolves its key characteristics may change as well. 

The idea of a highly-interoperable decentralized network is not yet a reality. However, there are some technologies and platforms that have been called or compared to the metaverse, such as:

• Fortnite;
• Meta Horizons;
• Microsoft AltspaceVR;
• Nvidia metaverse;
• Pokemon Go;
• Roblox;
• Second Life.

Sweeping categories of technologies may also be considered part of the metaverse or compared to metaverse technologies, such as video conferencing platforms and AR games.

The metaverse is attracting attention for several reasons, but two, in particular, stand out. First, the metaverse could allow consumers to have more immersive experiences with technology than currently possible, such as when shopping or gaming. 

And second, in part from recognizing the foregoing, major corporations are starting to make significant investments in the metaverse. Whether these investments will generate a meaningful return remains to be seen. 

Additionally, the metaverse could have the following notable impacts:

• Transformation of communication options;
• Advancements in scientific research;
• Expansion of investment opportunities;
• Enhancement of collaboration and work opportunities;
• Expansion of educational opportunities already seen in educational video games.

In particular, the metaverse has also gained a lot of attention from parents and teachers alike, largely as they seek to understand what it is, its potential and ways to ensure that kids have a safe experience with it. As a result, many parents may require a guide to the metaverse to fully understand all of the implications of letting their kids engage with this kind of technology.  

On the other hand, while the metaverse theoretically could offer many benefits, there are many concerns about how it may affect our economy and culture.

The following are common concerns about the metaverse and related technologies:

• The impacts on real-life interactions;
• How companies may monetize and engage with users in the metaverse;
• How widespread engagement with the metaverse and related technology could affect the environment;
• How it would affect the job market;
• The value and stability of digital assets;
• Potential regulations and legal ramifications;
• Personal, corporate, and government security.

Additionally, these concerns may be more applicable to certain industries than others. 

The following are some possible impacts that the metaverse may have on various industries:

• The market value of the gaming industry may expand, along with job opportunities in this sector.
• The media industry may continue to shift away from traditional formats to online platforms.
• E-commerce may greatly expand. Not only might more transactions take place online, but more purely digital assets may be traded.
• Engineering and manufacturing may become more advanced at the design and prototyping stages due to highly-realistic modeling advances. 

In all likelihood, virtually every industry would feel the impacts of a fully-realized metaverse. It could also have a substantial impact on efforts such as accessibility.

The metaverse may help build accessibility into an increasingly digital future. This could include:

• Allowing users to easily attend events in a virtual capacity;
• Expanding access to assistive listening technologies for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing;
• Expanding access to assistive mobile technology for people with low vision or blindness;
• Expanding access to addiction recovery apps and tools;
• Expanding ready access to assistive technologies related to PTSD;
• Empowering neurodiverse or physically disabled users to interact with others in more inclusive ways;
• Increasing access to various mental health apps;
• Increasing opportunities to leverage technology to assist children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD);
• Offering highly-customizable avatars that could be used to circumvent discrimination;
• Providing tools and resources that may be difficult or impossible to access in real life;
• Providing more options and channels for communication;
• Improving video game accessibility for individuals with disabilities of all ages;
• Moving more jobs to a digital platform. 

With the potential benefits available, it may be valuable to seek education and training in anticipation of the metaverse or similar innovations.

The following examples of courses and programs can provide education and training for building and navigating metaverse platforms and technologies:

• Blockchain Council’s Metaverse Expert certification;
• Coursera’s Introduction to XR, VR, AR, & MR Foundations;
• Coursera’s Virtual Reality Specialization;
• Skillshare’s Introduction to Metaverse and How to Invest in It;
• SuperHi’s Intro to User Experience Design;
• Udemy’s Complete Unity Game Development;
• Udemy’s Metaverse Masterclass;
• Udemy’s Start AR and VR Metaverse Business;
• Various AR/VR software engineering courses;
• Various business administration and project management courses;
• Various digital marketing courses;
• Various gaming design and development courses;
• Various hardware engineering courses;
• Various XR courses.

Although not developed yet, career paths specifically related to the metaverse may potentially arise as well. 

The exact future of the metaverse is largely unknown. Everything from its eventual scope to its very definition is difficult to anticipate. What we do know is that many companies are investing a lot of resources into the development of the metaverse or related technologies. 

At the bare minimum, we will likely see a notable expansion of extended reality technologies and applications going forward. Furthermore, additional infrastructure is likely to be built in anticipation of these advancements. However, how these assets will be utilized and how interoperable they will be will depend on a great number of factors and could very well affect the further development of the metaverse.

Often called the next generation of the internet, the metaverse is a 3D virtual world where users can interact, create and do business with anyone, from virtually any location with an available internet connection. Supporting 3D immersion through virtual reality (VR), the metaverse could offer new possibilities for interactivity.

Opinions vary on just how popular the metaverse might become. Some sources estimate a market size of $800 billion by 2024, and that by 2026 about one-quarter of people will spend at least an hour per day in the metaverse — to work, play, shop or simply hang out. You don’t have to wait, however, if you want to start exploring the metaverse right now.

No one knows what the metaverse will ultimately look like, but many companies have created versions of virtual worlds that you can join today. These platforms vary in the range of experiences they provide, but they typically offer VR immersion and some kind of digital economy in which you can participate.

With multiple metaverse platforms to choose from, you should evaluate each to determine what is best for you. You should also know the risks, however, related to account security and fraud in the metaverse. If you take the time to learn how the metaverse works, what equipment and costs are needed for access, and how to protect your personal information, then you can get started safely exploring it. Here are some of the existing metaverse platforms to choose from.

Roblox

Already enormously popular with kids, Roblox has established an extensive online community with immersive 2D user-created environments, mini-games, and virtual events in a metaverse-like environment. As a game primarily marketed to children, Roblox values security and moderation on its platform, so it’s one of the safest metaverse options in this regard. To play Roblox, you only need to download the mobile app and sign up for an account.

Decentraland

One of the more popular versions of a decentralized metaverse environment, Decentraland is a VR platform built on blockchain technology. Its virtual world is made almost entirely of user-generated spaces and experiences that include games, shops and events.

Sandbox

Like Decentraland, The Sandbox is a blockchain-based metaverse that utilizes a creator community for most of its virtual experiences. The Sandbox also requires you to have a web browser and a crypto wallet to sign up for a user account.

This metaverse platform has a rapidly growing range of experiences that span gaming, trading, fashion and music. The Sandbox has even partnered with celebrities including Snoop Dogg and Paris Hilton to host virtual concerts and parties. As for which platform ultimately grows to be the larger metaverse — The Sandbox or Decentraland — only time will tell.

Star Atlas

A space-themed game with a unique metaverse environment, Star Atlas is an emerging platform that promises immersive gameplay in an expansive virtual world. In this game, you can own a spaceship and items as non-fungible tokens (NFTs), play-to-earn, and make purchases to grow your fleet. As with other metaverse platforms based on blockchain, you’ll need to connect a crypto wallet to make an account and start playing.

Illuvium

Another iteration of metaverse gaming, Illuvium is an open-world role-playing game based on a blockchain. The gameplay revolves around earning money, collecting NFT creatures, and trading digital assets. Additional objectives involve powering up the creatures, battling other players, and exploring the virtual world. It’s free to sign up for Illuvium, but you’ll need a crypto wallet and may have to purchase some of the cryptocurrency to start playing.

Bloktopia

An emerging platform centered entirely around cryptocurrency and trading, the Bloktopia platform promises real estate, shopping, entertainment and other types of commerce with a virtual skyscraper. Users can buy tokens and NFTs that represent property within the game, then trade or invest these within the economy of this metaverse.

Most metaverse environments require only a computer, web browser and an internet connection to enter. As discussed above, you may also need a digital wallet for certain types of platforms. Additionally, you’ll need VR equipment if you want to enjoy the full range of 3D experiences in the metaverse.

• VR headset: The critical piece of hardware for virtual reality, a headset fits over your eyes to deliver immersive visuals and sound while effectively blocking out your surroundings.
• VR controllers: Handheld controllers are another common component of VR systems, using buttons and joysticks to control actions within the metaverse environment.
• Haptic devices: An advanced form of VR controller, haptic devices can deliver the sense of touch with vibration, compression or motion. Haptics may be incorporated into headsets or other wearables such as gloves or vests.

Most metaverse platforms don’t require a fee to join. As long as you have the necessary hardware and an internet connection, you can enter and play for free. However, most platforms based on blockchain — like The Sandbox and Decentraland — require the exchange of cryptocurrency for full functionality.

Currency in the metaverse

Much like in the real world, activities in the metaverse tend to cost money. Rather than using dollars, however, metaverse platforms utilize digital tokens. You can either purchase them or earn them in-game by completing certain tasks or challenges.

Centralized platforms like Roblox may issue exclusive tokens that can only be used within the game. However, decentralized platforms — those based on blockchain — tend to use cryptocurrency that can be freely traded through a crypto exchange. In other words, you could sell one type of cryptocurrency for another, or cash out your crypto for dollars whenever you like.

Ideally, the metaverse should be a place that’s safe for everyone to play and socialize online. However, as an emerging technology that is largely unregulated, the metaverse presents concerns for security and privacy. Particularly because these platforms use digital assets with monetary value, cybercriminals are targeting the metaverse with various types of scams.

To access the metaverse safely, it’s important to be aware of the risks. Here are some common threats associated with metaverse platforms:

• Online harassment: Social interaction in the metaverse is often loosely moderated, or not monitored at all. This can leave users susceptible to cyberbullying, offensive language and actions, or other types of abuse online.
• Data privacy: Metaverse platforms and participants may collect personal information when you create an account and interact online. Accidental or intentional misuse of this data could lead to your personal information being shared or stolen.
• Phishing scams: Cybercriminals can attempt to steal user credentials or virtual property through phony links that mimic metaverse logins.
• Pump-and-dump schemes: On platforms that sell virtual property or currency, fraudsters can collude to buy large amounts of the asset and quickly drive up the value. They can convince other people to buy at these inflated prices, then the fraudsters sell off all at once and the value crashes.
• NFT scams: Various scams target buyers of NFTs, including phishing for account information, selling plagiarized NFTs or collecting investment on fake NFT projects.
• Malware attacks: Cybercriminals may trick users into downloading harmful files through metaverse accounts, and thereby infect the recipient’s device with malicious software.

Although the risks may seem significant, there are ways you can protect yourself from security threats in the metaverse. Here are the most important precautions you should take to make sure your identity and account information remain safe:

• Only join a metaverse platform that you trust: Read and understand the privacy policy and user agreements of any metaverse platform that you are interested in using. Additionally, search for reviews and information from other sources to learn the platform’s reputation for data privacy and security.
• Report and block bad behavior: Upon joining a metaverse platform, you should familiarize yourself with the tools for blocking or reporting users who harass you or otherwise violate the terms of service.
• Verify links and websites: Never follow a link unless you are sure it leads to a secure website. Additionally, never input information to a page that is not on the official domain of the service you are trying to use.
• Never share sensitive information: Other than the official login pages, no site or entity should ask for your login credentials or other information that might grant access to your accounts.
• Beware of fraudulent sales: If you decide to participate in any metaverse economy, you must learn how the transactions work and what makes a sale legitimate. Avoid any suspicious offers or activities that could be scams.

The metaverse is expected to offer entirely new ways to work and play online. With these new opportunities come some new challenges, but by knowing the risks you can make a plan to deal with them. If you learn the policies of the platforms and take steps to protect yourself online, you can become an early explorer in the new technological frontier of the metaverse.