DIGITAL SECURITY AS A COMPONENT OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE FOR TEACHING STUFF
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54662/veresen.2.2025.03Keywords:
digital security, information society, cyber threats, education, digital competence, cyber attacksAbstract
The article examines the urgent issue of educators’ digital security within the context of a rapidly developing information society and increasing reliance on digital technologies in the education sector. It investigates the theoretical foundations of digital competence, conceptualizing it as a multidimensional construct that encompasses not only technical skills but also values, attitudes, and critical thinking. Digital competence is identified as a key factor in ensuring the safe, ethical, and effective use of ICT in pedagogical practice. The authors analyse the range of cyber threats faced by educators, including phishing, credential theft, malware distribution and using unlicensed or Russian software, all of which could compromise personal and institutional data. Vulnerabilities in cloud services and data privacy issues are discussed in the context of global trends and national reports. Special attention is given to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the full-scale war in Ukraine, both of which intensified educators’ exposure to digital threats and necessitated a rapid shift to remote learning. The aim of the study is to provide a theoretical rationale and practical recommendations for enhancing educators’ resilience to digital threats. The proposed measures include the use of open-source software, consistent digital hygiene education, adherence to international data protection standards (e.g., GDPR), and the development of institutional cybersecurity policies. The findings emphasize the necessity of a systemic approach that integrates technical infrastructure, policy-level safeguards, and professional development initiatives. Promoting digital awareness and fostering a security-oriented culture among educators is presented as a prerequisite for maintaining the integrity and effective functioning of modern education systems.
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