Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) has organized an online security training workshop for Harare Journalists to equip them with skills on securing their information and gadgets.
By Philemon Jambaya and Nomsa Mandaza
During the two day training, journalists were taken through sessions on strengthening their online presence, assessing and understanding digital threats, practical tips on staying safe when using technology and social media among other sessions.
Addressing journalists during the training session, Christopher Musodza who is an Information Technology guru said such a trainings are important especially in light of victimization of some bloggers and journalist ahead of the 2018 harmonized elections
“We have seen the importance of teaching journalists on how to protect their sources and whistle blowers by knowing the dangers associated with their gadgets from third parts,” said Musodza.
One of the facilitators Tash Dowell warned against trusting unlicensed softwares as these pose threats to personal data.
“Genuine software licences are not cheap but they are worth having, they have less risks and they are trustworthy, the moment we have cracked OP,we are now opening the doors for malware”, said Dowell.
The two day training was dedicated at addressing the issues that participants identify as high risk, high probability in the threat of their work as Journalists.
Young Journalists Association (YOJA) Chairperson Mlondolozi Ndlovu commended MISA for recognizing the work of young scribes.
“We are grateful to MISA for recognizing the work we are doing hence their decision to equip us with security knowledge on how to protect ourselves and our sources,” Ndlovu said.
