Labeled as a revolutionary
breakthrough in the world of communication, the
internet has come a very long
way from just a mere exchange of an email. It has now become synonymous with our
way of life. It has successfully revamped the entire mode of communication and
provided numerous services like instant chat, research tools, entertainment and
leisure in the form of games, music, videos and art and most importantly the
dissemination of news on a global platter. Internet has only accelerated the process
of Globalization and made possible global relationships in all fields of life. However, the Internet is also a
double-edged sword, with its equal share of flaws and assets.
Cyber crime, a
term given to illegal and harmful
activities carried out by people online, is a
problem prevailing everywhere. Awareness is the first necessary step in the
direction of cyber safety. One must be up-to-date with the laws enforced in the
country in relation to cyber crime. Be conscious of the latest
viruses and install
the necessary anti-virus protection as soon as you get your internet services. This
is especially required if you download music, software and other things off the
net. The common misconception that viruses spread through
unknown mails and sites
must be disregarded. Children must be supervised and
their activities monitored when online. Of course, you cannot constantly
intrude into their space, so explain the safety precautions to be taken when
online. Research has shown that children are the primary targets of cyber crime,
especially vicious acts like pornography and pedophilia. Their innocence and
gullibility make them easy victims. Teenagers and young girls are also prey to
cyber stalking and must be briefed about the warning signs of such activities. They
are generally overcome by fear and guilt when faced with cyber criminals. Never let out personal information
or contact details to anyone online, whether known or unknown. Avoid opening
emails from unknown people, or if the subject of the email looks fishy. When
using credit cards for online
transactions, make sure to check the security of
the website and keep track of your transactions/payments. Avoid uploading your own or your
friends’ photographs; there are many safe online photo sharing albums available
to share photographs. It is uncouth to defame some person or organization,
irrespective of whether you are right or wrong. The Internet should not be
exploited or misused, under any pretext; we need to respect the rights of every
person using it.
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