Page 50 - Viva ICSE Computer Studies 7 : E-book

Disadvantages of Internet

The Internet has several advantages. However, there are certain disadvantages of using the
Internet. Let’s learn about them.

• Exploitation: The speed and ease of communicating on the Internet makes it much
easier for someone to lie about their identity and fi nd others to exploit various services
available on the Internet.

• Addiction and Wastage of Time: The Internet as well as the games played on the Internet
can become very addictive. It is also very easy to be doing something productive and
then be distracted by something else on the Internet that ends up consuming all your
time.
• Theft of Personal Information: With access to billions of computers, becomes easier for
computer hackers and malicious users to hack accounts and steal personal information
that can be used for identity theft.
• Spam and Advertising: Internet acts as a medium to reach a much wider audience than
traditional advertising methods (newspaper, TV and radio). However, since it is easily
accessible, the users get to see more advertising and get more spams in their e-mail inbox.

• Health Issues and Obesity: Spending too much time on the computer, surfi ng the
Internet or playing games can also lead to obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle.

• Virus Threat: Computers that are connected to the Internet are more prone to virus
attacks, which lead to slowing down of system, data loss and crashing of systems.

Computer Ethics

Standard of moral conduct that governs the behaviour of an individual is called ethics. Ethics
are required to maintain the system security. Unethical acts are not always illegal, but they
cause harm to the security.

Some of the computer ethics that should be followed by the users are stated here.
• Do not spy on other person’s computer.

• Do not use others’ computers without their consent.
• Avoid using pirated software. Always pay for software unless it is freely available.

• Be respectful to others while communicating with them on the Internet.

• Do not steal anyone’s information. If you are using someone else’s information, do not
forget to acknowledge them.
• Do not contribute in spreading wrong information.

Unethical Practices

Now let’s learn about some unethical practices followed while working online. These practices
should not be encouraged and should be prohibited.

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