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Internet Security
There is a growing concern from users of the Internet and Internet companies about the lack of protection for personal information. The Internet is a boundless and vast medium that is proving to be more profitable ground for those who seek private information about others for financial or personal gain. Information can be accessed anywhere in the world at any time of the day, making the Internet's reach both exciting and treacherous. As a result, the Internet has become an appealing place for criminals to obtain identifying data, such as passwords or even banking information.
In their effort to bypass advanced Internet security, many people respond to more subtle and less conspicuous forms of deception like "spam" (unsolicited E-mail) that promises them some benefit but requests identifying data, without realizing that in many cases, the requester has no intention of keeping his promise. Email has also become responsible for many known viruses, and by opening a message or clicking a provided link can allow spyware or malware to run through an unsuspecting users hardrive.
The most common invasions of privacy involve the use of personal information by marketers who gain information from Web surfers voluntarily or through technology. Some Web sites require patrons to register before they can enter. Many of these on-line registration forms often ask for a wide array of personal information. Many sites also have ways of tracking what types of information Web users seek out when they visit their sites, information that could prove useful for marketing products to individuals.
With just a little information and some persistence, a criminal can use what little information he has to get more information and eventually take over that individual's identity to conduct a wide range of crimes. A few examples are falsely applying for loans and credit cards, making fraudulent withdrawals from bank accounts, and fraudulently using telephone calling cards. A skilled criminal can also take steps to ensure that the bills are sent to an address other than the victim's, causing the victim to become unaware of what is happening until the criminal has already inflicted enough damage to cause several years worth of damage to the victims credit.
