Internet has opened incredible opportunities for information, shopping, communications, news, and more. However, it also poses many threats.

Southwestern Community College is offering a newly designed 24-hour course for both business and individual users concerned about protecting themselves and their computers.

Dealing with Internet Hazards and Abuses will be offered at the SCC Macon Center in downtown Franklin in two different sections. Students can elect to take a 2-week morning class on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. beginning September 30. As an alternative, they can choose a Sunday afternoon class that will meet for 6-weeks from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. starting on October 6. The cost of the course is $55.

According to the instructor, Jessica Baker, "The intent of the course is not to scare people about Internet but to enhance their usage and safety in using it."

The course will cover a variety of topic areas including e-mail, Internet hoaxes, personal risks, virus detection software, and safe Internet sites. Students will learn about sensitive information, Spys and Adware, web bugs, and purchasing on Internet. They will study downloading software from trust sites, pirated software, freeware, and shareware. Finally, they will learn about proxy servers, preventative software, profiling of hackers, and cyber lingo.

To pre-register for the course or for additional information e-mail ritas@southwesterncc.edu or call 828-369-7331 in Franklin.