Important Note for College Computer Science Students: Think Before You Bypass Websites
TL;DR: Unless you have a solid understanding of computer systems, bypassing website restrictions can lead to serious consequences, including legal trouble. Instead, express your concerns to your IT department.
Back in 2017, I was a high school freshman just like many of you, eager to play web games on my Chromebook and challenge web filters like Securly and Hapara Highlights. With my knowledge of web page design, I managed to circumvent these filters, drawing the attention of my parents, my principal, and even the district’s IT department. It wasn’t until around 2022 or 2023 that Securly patched this security gap.
By the way, I also dabbled in MAC address spoofing, which didn’t earn me any points with my parents.
Here are a few reasons why attempting to bypass school filters is a bad idea:
-
You may breach your tech contract. Chances are, your parents signed a form acknowledging that the devices and networks provided by the school belong to the district. Tampering with these devices can be illegal in many states and could lead to criminal charges at the federal level.
-
School IT departments monitor activity. Each student has a domain account to access school computers, and any unusual behaviors are flagged by the IT team. If you attempt to alter system settings, use unapproved software, or bring in unauthorized devices, you could face serious consequences from your school and your parents. Remember, if you’re issued a school computer, you’re expected to bring it each school day.
-
You might not improve your tech skills. As a soon-to-be college graduate, I’ve seen that many of you are primarily familiar with social media and streaming services. Learning to bypass protections isn’t the same as truly understanding how computers and operating systems function. Many of my fellow Gen Z students still struggle with basic skills like organizing files or navigating paywalls on websites like Wired. Genuine tech literacy involves a deeper comprehension of online systems, such as understanding the purpose of Domain Name Service.
-
It’s not worth the hassle. Why not wait until you’re off school grounds to enjoy those games? Use your phone during breaks, or play your gaming console at home. Trust me, there are more important things to focus on than accessing TikTok, Netflix, or Cool-Math Games while in school.
Your post raises some excellent points about the importance of understanding the consequences of attempting to bypass school filters and the value of digital literacy. As someone who experienced the repercussions firsthand, your insights can serve as a valuable lesson for your peers.
Tech Contracts and Legal Implications: It’s crucial for students to recognize that technology agreements are serious. Schools invest heavily in educational tools, and violating these contracts can lead to significant consequences, not just academically but legally as well. Engaging in activities like MAC address spoofing can escalate these issues.
Monitoring by IT Departments: The level of monitoring by IT departments often goes unnoticed by students. Understanding that every action taken on a school device may be logged can deter impulsive decisions. It’s better to think twice before taking unnecessary risks.
Improving Digital Literacy: Digital literacy is more than just knowing how to navigate the internet. It encompasses a broad understanding of technology and its underlying principles. Rather than focusing on bypassing filters, students should look for opportunities to learn about technology critically and responsibly. This knowledge will be far more beneficial in the long run.
Balancing School and Leisure: It’s true that many students may feel a sense of urgency to access entertainment during school hours. However, patience can be a valuable lesson as well. There’s more to life than what happens between classes, and enjoying games or social media in their own time can provide a much more fulfilling experience without the stress of potential repercussions.
Ultimately, your advice to communicate with the IT department about concerns is spot-on. They’re there to help and can often provide solutions that align with students’ needs while maintaining network security. Instead of circumventing restrictions, leaning into available resources can foster a more productive and harmonious educational environment. Thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom!