How do you protect your privacy as an online tutor?

The platform to be used is very important for online tutoring. The features on it has a lot to do with the level of privacy you want to protect. Like Avatar, email visibility, contact address and phone number sharing. You can determine what you want to display to the general public on the online tutoring platform.

In the realm of online tutoring, a reputable platform is your fortress of privacy. Imagine a guardian watching over your secrets. Choosing wisely isn't just preference; it's protection. It's not just about tutoring; it's safeguarding. Your choice isn't random; it's strategic. In this digital age, platforms aren't just options; they're gateways to sharing knowledge without compromising privacy, ensuring your online tutoring journey remains a sanctuary of security.

Even better, don’t put yourself at the mercy of someone else’s conglomerate platform. Be totally independent and set your own boundaries.

Selecting the right platform is like choosing a partner in your tutoring journey. Opt for one that offers transparency in policies, robust tools for management, and stellar customer support. Dive into reviews for real-world insights, and prioritize platforms with fair fees and high security. Remember, a platform should empower you, not encumber you, ensuring your focus remains on delivering quality education while it takes care of the rest. Choose wisely—your platform is the bedrock of your online tutoring success.

In my experience, choosing a reputable platform not only ensures security but also builds trust with students. One thing I have found helpful is to check the platform’s privacy policy to understand how they handle your data.

Even more than having a separate email address, purchase a domain for your business, and then use an email address from that domain. It looks more professional and it keeps your business email separate from your personal details.

Using a separate email address for work has been invaluable in my experience. It helps keep professional and personal communications distinct, and I’ve found it helpful in organizing my inbox more efficiently.

There is a balance to be struck here and it depends on where you are putting the personal details. You don't need to share personal details on social media, but you do need to be able to verify that the person is who they say they are. Same with your website. There needs to be enough there. However in sessions, I need to build a connection with my student and that can be even harder to do over the internet. I share some appropriate things during conversation so they can see me as a human being.

Limiting personal details is crucial, in my experience, to maintain professional boundaries. One helpful practice I’ve adopted is to share only what is necessary for the teaching process.

If parents want me to be in direct contact with their child - which can be appropriate for older students, who may be home alone - I insist that parents are copied into ALL communication. That means I cc every email to parents and it means a group on WhatsApp - absolutely NO individual communication with the young person without parents copied in. 21 years’ worth of safeguarding training has drummed this into me.

Being careful with communication is something I’ve learned through experience. One thing that has been helpful is to always maintain a professional tone and avoid sharing sensitive information through unsecured channels.

In my experience, using a VPN and antivirus software is non-negotiable for protecting against cyber threats. I’ve found it particularly helpful to schedule regular scans and updates to stay protected.

Regularly updating settings and passwords is a habit I’ve developed over time. One thing I have found helpful is using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.

In addition to changing passwords regularly, I would also add that changing online meeting links and codes regularly is also important. Avoid having your personal meeting link sent to all students and parents, instead setting up a personalised link for each student, which could be updated each session, week or term (depending on preferences).