Osservatorio Nessuno at school: digital self-defense and hacker culture courses in Turin

1 July 2022 - Advocacy

In recent months, we had the pleasure of collaborating with I.I.S. Ettore Majorana in Turin for a series of meetings on digital security, hacker culture, and education for a criticial approach to the use of technology. The experience was incredibly positive: we met curious students eager to better understand the mechanisms of the digital world and, most importantly, to protect their online privacy.

Why go to schools? #

We live in an era where technology permeates every aspect of our daily lives. However, awareness of how computer systems work and how to protect oneself from digital threats is still limited. We believe that digital education must start at the local level and in schools, shaping informed users who can navigate the internet with critical thinking and autonomy.

Course program #

Between March and June 2022, we organized a series of thematic afternoon lessons for Majorana students. Our approach was practical and interactive, always aiming to stimulate debate and active participation. Here are some of the topics covered:

1. Introduction to digital delf-defense and hacker culture – An introduction to online privacy, the most common threats, and strategies for self-protection.
2. Linux and the command line – A journey into the world of free software, with practical exercises on shell usage and file and process management.
3. How the internet works – From OSI model layers to fundamental protocols, up to tools for monitoring and securing one’s connection.
4. Cryptography and digital decurity – How cryptography, blockchain, NFTs, and DRM work, and why cryptography is essential for online freedom.
5. Basic programming with Telegram Bots – Introduction to programming through the creation of bots on Telegram.
6. Social Media and the Fediverse – A critical analysis of social networks, user profiling, and decentralized alternatives.
7. Hacking and cybersecurity – Basic concepts of security testing, web application security, and defensive tools.
8. Streaming, online radio, and Audacity – Audio production techniques and managing an online radio station.

An experience worth repeating #

The enthusiasm of the students and their active participation demonstrated that there is a strong need for education on these topics. For us at Osservatorio Nessuno, this is just the first of many initiatives: we are open to collaborating with other schools, associations, and groups that want to spread a free and informed technological culture.

If you are a teacher or part of an educational institution and would like to contact us, write to info@osservatorionessuno.org.

Digital culture is a right: let’s defend it together!