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Although the Internet is rapidly becoming the dominant medium for business
and communication, it still remains something of a frontier, because
there is little regulation. Most efforts have relied on the Internet industry
to police itself. While self-policing has had some success, continued abuses have increased calls for government intervention.
Some aspects of the Internet could undoubtedly use regulation, but this task is not as simple as it may seem. The very nature of the Internet--a loose constellation of networks comprising tens of millions of computers flung across the globe--makes it extremely difficult, if not impossible to regulate. At the same time, the absence of regulations means that everyone who uses this essentially public network can be a target for anyone who has the technical know-how and the desire to invade their privacy. While the threat from hackers is low for individuals, a more serious threat to personal privacy comes from companies that operate websites. Many sites require you to register before you can use its services. Often you must provide personal information, such as your name, street address, and e-mail address. Then as you browse the site, data is collected as to which pages you visit, how long you remain on each page, the links you click, which terms you search, and so on. After a number of visits to the site, a personal profile emerges. The question is, what do site operators do with this information?
Junk mail is more of an annoyance than a serious problem. But what if you read articles about cancer on a health site? Would you want this information revealed to insurance companies? Or what if the gift you bought your boyfriend appeared on your Facebook page? Most people consider that an invasion of privacy.
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