Friday, June 30, 2023

Is being gay by nature or nurture?

Within these 15 years, it’s speculated that the number of people who come out as gay has increased drastically. There are many speculations as to why a sudden increase. Some people believe that there are people who are employed to supposedly help people come out of the closet, but other people argue that those people are actually recruiting.

An image with a bluish background show
Gender

Whether the rumours are true or false, the question of what is deemed to some people as a conundrum is, ‘is being gay come by nature or by nurture?’. The population of the world has been growing drastically over the past 30 years, and as the population grows also does varieties of people. In this life we are all different, and maybe that’s the essence of life, the glory of life.

A photo of rainbow flag representing gay pride
Gay pride flags

When someone becomes different in the way they view their gender, that becomes problematic in the view of the society in which they live. Social norms detect what one may become and how one may behave or act in life. It’s disregarded if these societal rules destroy originality in people. Now, if in this case there are people who are gay because of nature, then society destroys those people since they did not choose who or what they will be when they arrive in this world.

But the argument goes on because some people argue that it’s the media that entice people to explore things they are not supposed to explore.

What’s your opinion? Is being gay by nature or by nurture?

Digital Security: What is digital security and what is online security in the world that’s so concerned with digital privacy

 In today’s interconnected world, where we rely heavily on digital technologies and the internet, the concept of online security has become paramount. Just as we have security guards protecting our physical spaces, police officers upholding law and order, and soldiers defending our nations, the realm of computers and the internet also requires its own form of protection. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of online security, examining its significance and shedding light on the measures we must take to safeguard our digital lives.



Cyber security experts, the online guards

Imagine a bustling city with a multitude of people going about their daily lives. To ensure the safety and well-being of its residents, the city deploys a dedicated team of security guards. These guards patrol the streets, monitor surveillance cameras, and respond swiftly to any signs of trouble. Their presence instils a sense of confidence among the city’s inhabitants, allowing them to navigate their surroundings without constant fear.

An advanced tech image by Adi Goldstein @ unsplash.com


In a similar vein, the online world operates in a vast and complex ecosystem. It consists of numerous interconnected systems, networks, and devices that facilitate communication, transactions and the sharing of information. However, just like any city, this digital landscape is not exempt from threats and dangers.

Online security serves as the digital counterpart to those security guards. It encompasses a set of measures, practices, and technologies designed to safeguard our personal information, data, and privacy in the virtual realm. By implementing robust online security measures, we can protect ourselves from cyberattacks, data breaches, identity theft, and other malicious activities that may compromise our digital well-being.

Consider a police force responsible for maintaining law and order within a city. Their role is to detect and prevent crimes, apprehend wrongdoers, and ensure the safety of the community. Similarly, in the digital realm, we have cybersecurity experts who tirelessly work to identify and mitigate cyber threats. They develop advanced tools and strategies to ward off hackers, detect vulnerabilities, and respond to cyber incidents effectively.

In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, the need for online security has never been greater. From individuals and businesses to governments and organizations, everyone must play an active role in fortifying their online defences. By understanding the significance of online security and adopting appropriate measures, we can navigate the digital realm with confidence, knowing that our information and privacy are protected.

Thursday, June 29, 2023

How to stay safe online and how to have a password that’s secured for your login details

In the modern world, the security threat is real. As I discussed in the previous post, both physical security and online security are fundamental in our lives since both threats are real threats that can either kill us or harm us or our families. In most cases, both physical threats and online threats seek to take our hard-earned money from us. Because of those threats, both physical and online security are fundamental.

Both, physical and online security are fundamental


I assume that the majority of people who have smartphones or computers, and also the person who is reading this post have passwords. Passwords are the first method by which we protect our privacy online. Passwords safeguard our gateways. Passwords are used on email accounts, bank accounts, Spotify accounts and many other products. Almost all accounts have passwords, to keep up with the fact of being an account.

Even though we have passwords for our accounts, the threat is still there. Hackers and fraudsters will always try and find a way to break into our online accounts and even into our computers, phones, tablets, or iPads in order to unleash the threats we’ve already discussed above. This is why there is a need for education when pertaining to online accounts and passwords, as far as online security or digital security is concerned.

Digital threats are real, this is why online security is important. Image by Geralt @Pixabay

Password Hygiene

The word hygiene denotes maintenance of cleanliness and clean habits, so the ITC industry formulated the phrase password hygiene. Following the same idea behind this two words phrase, one may simply come to the conclusion that the phrase password hygiene refers to the fact that the password is strong and it's logical so that it can be easily remembered. The gist behind this phrase is that a password can be exposed to a hacker or can be easily guessed, so the practice of maintaining password hygiene entails:

a) Strong and Unique Passwords: People love to use simple and weak passwords. This gives them the sense that they will easily remember their password, but just as they make it easier to remember, they also tend to make it easier to guess. People love to write their date of birth, their ID numbers, and their siblings' names, but those are first to be guessed. Each person could think of a particular format by which they write their passwords. The format could make it easier for them to remember the passwords, but since it's their original idea it can become harder to steal. 

b) Password Managers: These days our digital presence is more present than before, some people literally live online, and as a result, the number of passwords that need to be managed by us (the users) keeps growing. Some password managers are LastPass, Dashlane, and KeePass. 

c) Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The 2FA is an additional layer of security, on top of the password. Even if someone gets access to our password and username, they will still be demanded to key in the 2FA. Famous 2FA companies that provide 2FA apps are Microsoft and Google. Also, there is SMS-based 2FA, where a company or portal to which the user is logging in provides an OTP (one-time pin). Facebook allows either 2FA app or 2FA SMS.  

d) Regular Password Updates: To play our role in making sure that our information is secured online, we must make sure that we update our passwords every three or six months. This helps when there is a data breach in the companies on which we are logged on or when we have been careless with our passwords, without realizing it. 

e) Unique Passwords for Each Account: This is a no-brainer, we must not use the same password in all the accounts we have. Anyone can guess the consequences, should there be a password leak or a hack.  

Let's meet on the next post. I will be sharing with you about the concept of encryption. 

Hopefully, this article, on password hygiene provided you with much-needed insight on the subject of password management. 


The Negative Impact of Social Media on the Confidence of the Users

 During weddings, church services, sporting events, outings at the beach, when cooking, and even dinner, people take photos of their moment and post the moment on social media. Social media has become an integral part of our lives. Daily, it becomes too difficult to imagine life without social media, since a part of our lives is digital and is in social media. 

A beautiful woman taking a selfie with her phone in a kitchen
Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

People use social media as a means of expressing themselves. This is why you find people taking photos of themselves showcasing their new clothes or their well-done hair. Even though the exercise is innocent, sometimes some people end up hurting themselves. There is a particular expected standard of life on social media and many social media users want approval, based on those standards, but this may cause hurt emotionally when things do not go according to their imagination.  


The Culture of Perfectionism

Social media created and somehow promotes the culture of perfectionism. This means that some users end up feeling pressured to show a fake version of themselves in order for them to be accepted and admired.  There were reports that many users on Instagram would delete a photo that received fewer likes. 

This culture of perfectionism creates unhealthy personal views, it makes some people feel inferior or unworthy or not beautiful because they feel they are not loved by the people on social media. 

Cyberbullying and Trolling

Cyberbullying and trolling are two major problems in social media platforms. It's easy for people to harass someone and get away with it since most accounts on social media platforms are somewhat anonymous. There is usually little evidence to prove if a person is really who they say they are unless advanced IT techniques for tracing are deployed. The people with sinister accounts are called trolls. 

Because trolls are free to do anything without fear, cyberbullying can be perpetuated. Sometimes cyber bullies body-shame people. It's easier for people to make someone's photos trend and speak degrading words against their body in the photo. This is seriously damaging, emotionally. 

Addiction and Self-Esteem

Social media addiction is a growing concern, particularly in young people. Addiction to social media can lead to a lack of productivity, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Addiction to social media can also create a cycle of addiction and self-esteem issues, where individuals become addicted to social media as a means of validation and self-worth.

A sad woman
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

For example, social media “likes,” “comments,” and “followers” have become a measure of one’s popularity and worth on these platforms. This can create a cycle of addiction, where individuals become addicted to the validation and self-worth that comes from social media engagement. This addiction can ultimately affect one’s confidence levels, as individuals become dependent on social media for their self-esteem.

Moreover, social media addiction can lead to a lack of productivity, which can ultimately affect one’s confidence in their abilities. For example, if an individual spends hours on social media, they may not have time to pursue their passions or achieve their goals, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media has become an integral part of our lives, but it has also brought about certain negative effects on its users. One of these effects is the impact it has on our confidence levels. Social media creates a culture of perfectionism, leads to cyberbullying and trolling, and can create a cycle of addiction and self-esteem issues. It is important to be aware of these negative effects and take steps to mitigate them, such as limiting social media use and seeking support from friends and family.

Remember, social media is just a platform, and it should not define our self-worth or confidence levels. We are all unique and valuable in our own way, and we should celebrate our differences rather than compare ourselves to others on social media.


Why do we trust Google more than our own memory?

 Have you ever found yourself struggling to remember a name, date, or fact, only to turn to Google for help? Most of us have. Google has become our go-to source for information, even when we have the knowledge stored in our own memory. But why do we trust Google more than our own memory? Let’s explore some of the reasons behind this phenomenon.

Photo by PhotoMIX Company on Pexels.com

The Reliability of Google

One of the main reasons we trust Google more than our own memory is the reliability of the information it provides. Google uses complex algorithms to sort through millions of web pages and present us with the most relevant and accurate results. We trust that the information we find on Google is up to date, accurate, and credible. However, our own memory is fallible and subject to biases, distortions, and errors. We may misremember information, forget important details, or be influenced by our emotions or beliefs. In contrast, Google is an impartial and objective source of information, free from human error and bias.

Moreover, Google provides us with a vast amount of information in a matter of seconds, far more than we could ever remember on our own. It’s no wonder we turn to Google for answers rather than relying on our own memory.

However, it’s important to note that not all information on Google is reliable or accurate. We must still use our critical thinking skills to evaluate the sources and information we find online.

The Convenience of Google

Another reason we trust Google more than our own memory is convenience. It’s much easier to type a question into Google than to try to remember the answer on our own. With Google, we don’t have to strain our brains or waste time trying to remember something. We can get the information we need quickly and efficiently, without any effort on our part. In a fast-paced world where time is a valuable commodity, convenience is king.

Furthermore, Google is available to us anytime, anywhere, on any device. We don’t have to carry around a heavy encyclopedia or visit a library to access information. We can simply pull out our smartphone or laptop and search for what we need. This accessibility and convenience make Google an indispensable tool in our daily lives.

The Fear of Forgetting

Lastly, we trust Google more than our own memory because we fear forgetting. In a world where information is constantly changing and expanding, we worry that we can’t keep up. We fear being left behind or missing out on important information. This fear of forgetting drives us to rely on external sources of information, such as Google, to supplement our memory. We don’t want to risk being wrong or making a mistake, so we turn to the most reliable and convenient source we know: Google.

Moreover, our reliance on Google reinforces the idea that we don’t need to remember everything. We can outsource our memory to external sources and focus on developing other skills or knowledge. In a way, Google has become an extension of our memory, a digital brain that we can tap into whenever we need it.

In conclusion

In conclusion, we trust Google more than our own memory for a variety of reasons, including reliability, convenience, and fear of forgetting. While Google has become an indispensable tool in our daily lives, we must also be aware of its limitations and potential biases. We should strive to develop our own critical thinking skills and memory abilities while using Google as a supplement. By doing so, we can strike a balance between relying on external sources of information and trusting our own memory.

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

A Jolly Guide to Finding Happiness in the Sea of Everyday Craziness


The Great Happiness vs. Joy Debate

Once upon a time, in the vast kingdom of Emotia, there lived two powerful forces: Happiness and Joy. Although they were often mistaken for twins, these two were as different as night and day. Happiness, the cool, sophisticated older sibling, was known for its stability, while Joy, the wild child, was famous for its spontaneous bursts of energy and excitement.

Now, you might be wondering: "Why should I care about these two mystical beings? I've got bills to pay and deadlines to meet!" Well, my dear reader, it's because Happiness and Joy are the keys to unlocking a truly fulfilling life. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure as we dive into the magical world of happiness and uncover its secrets to help you live your best life!

In this thrilling blog post, we'll explore the reasons why we must be happy, how to find happiness and the impact of helping others find happiness on our well-being. So, let's embark on this journey to the land of Happiness and Joy and see what gems we can unearth!

The Quest for Happiness: Why We Must Be Happy

Reason #1: Boost Your Health and Well-Being

Did you know that being happy is like a free prescription for good health? That's right! Studies have shown that happy people have stronger immune systems, lower stress levels, and even live longer. Think of it as a magical potion that not only makes you feel good but also keeps you healthy and strong. So, next time you're tempted to wallow in misery, remember that happiness is the key to a healthier and more vibrant you!

Reason #2: Improve Your Relationships

Let's face it, nobody wants to hang out with a perpetual grump. Happy people are like magnets, attracting friends and loved ones with their radiant smiles and infectious laughter. By embracing happiness, you'll not only improve your social life but also strengthen your existing relationships. So, go ahead and spread the cheer; you'll soon find that happiness is contagious!

Reason #3: Boost Your Productivity and Success

Believe it or not, happiness can make you richer and more successful (no, we're not kidding!). Studies have shown that happy people are more productive, creative, and better at problem-solving. Plus, they're more likely to be promoted or land that dream job. So, if you want to climb the ladder of success, start by increasing your happiness quotient!

Discovering Happiness: The Treasure Map to a Happier You

Step 1: Focus on the Positive

As they say, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!" One of the secrets to finding happiness is to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Sure, things may not always go as planned, but that doesn't mean you can't find a silver lining. Practice gratitude and appreciate the little things that bring you joy, and you'll soon find that happiness is always within reach.

Enjoy little things in life. Image: Dalle-2

Step 2: Build Strong Connections

As social creatures, humans thrive on connections and relationships. To find happiness, surround yourself with people who share your values and interests. Engage in meaningful conversations, forge strong friendships, and don't forget to laugh! Remember, happiness is contagious, so surround yourself with positive vibes and watch your happiness grow!

Step 3: Pursue Your Passions

What makes your heart sing? Whether it's painting, dancing, or solving complex equations, pursuing your passions is a surefire way to unlock the door to happiness. By engaging in activities that bring you joy, you'll not only boost your self-esteem but also discover your true purpose in life. So, explore your interests, take risks, and don't be afraid to follow your dreams!

Spreading the Happiness: The Ripple Effect of Helping Others

The Joy of Giving

Did you know that making others happy can boost your own happiness? It's true! When you help others find happiness, you'll experience a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment that's hard to beat. Plus, you'll create a ripple effect as your kindness inspires others to pay it forward. So, go ahead and share the gift of happiness – you'll not only make the world a better place but also enjoy the warm glow of happiness yourself!

The Impact of Your Help

Mom creates happy memories for the kid by eating sharing with them the ice cream at the park. Image: Kamaji Ogino @Pexels

When you help others find happiness, you're not only improving their lives but also creating a positive impact on the world around you. By spreading happiness, you're helping to foster a kinder, more compassionate society where people feel valued and supported. And let's be honest, who wouldn't want to live in a world like that?

Conclusion: The Happily Ever After

And so, our journey through the enchanting land of Happiness and Joy comes to an end. But fear not, for the adventure doesn't stop here! Armed with newfound knowledge and insights, you're now ready to embark on your own quest for happiness. So, go forth and embrace the power of happiness, cultivate strong connections, and spread the joy to those around you. Together, let's create a world where everyone can enjoy their own happily ever after!

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