Anonymous+accounts


 * Set up an anonymous Gmail account using an alias**

Confidentiality and online security are considerations when working in an online environment. While many of the risks and hazards tend to be sensationalized in the mainstream media, it is important to be aware of "web-proofing" strategies to avoid problems. One of the most basic principles is "security through obscurity" and the use of anonymous accounts.

Establish a new, anonymous, web-based email account specifically for use in online activities. Your anonymous Gmail account will give you access to a wide variety of other Google products and social media services including those that are commonly used in elearning.

**__Usernames__** **When you set up your anonymous accounts do not use your real name. Use an generic alias that does not give clues about your name, address, age, gender or institutional affiliation or student status. You could use a series of letters and numbers in combination, for example, "bbb222@gmail.com"** **. **


 * Use your anonymous account to register for other social media applications and services as reguired. Most online applications will require a user name, a password and an active email account. You can use the first part of your gmail account (bbb222) for your user name and use your anonymized gmail account for the required email. **

** To create passwords you can use a service like ** [] Store passwords in a notebook kept separately from your computer (sock drawer, secret compartments, etc).
 * __Passwords__ **

To set up a Gmail account, go to [|this link] and fill in the form and follow the instructions. On the form you will use your alias in the field that asks for your "Desired Logon Name. (You can also view a [|YouTube video] that will guide you through the steps of setting up a Gmail account.)