safe-Net eBooklet | Page 71

2.Theft Theft is a major problem with the Internet. Theft of goods and theft of identity are two major problems with the Internet. Stolen credit card information can be used instantly, and often without any detection whatsoever. This can lead to massive financial problems on behalf of the victim, rendering them high risk for loans and mortgages, lowering their credit rating significantly, even leaving them bankrupt. Identity theft is perhaps a bigger concern. With a few well-placed clicks at the fingers of the perpetrator, your whole world can be turned upside down. Identity theft is a growing concern, and it is one of the biggest negative effects of the Internet. 3.Cyber Bullying Cyber bullying is a full-bloom problem, mainly in schools. Cyber bullying is much easier than physical bullying due to the anonymity factor, allowing cowards to be the bullies. The infestation of social media sites allows cyber bullies to reach a massive audience in seconds, leaving the victim over exposed and demoralized. Cyber bullying is leading to a rise in suicides. This is a horrifically negative effect of the Internet. 4.Professional The Internet also has a negative effect on many individuals in the workforce. Social media sites in particular, such as Facebook, have altered the landscape of employment. Potential employers are now scouring the Internet for background information rather than reading resumes and checking references. Cyberspace is unforgiving, and words and images that are contributed remain there forever. In today's society, if you have a skeleton in your closet, the Internet will find it and expose it for the world to see. This is a catastrophically negative effect of the Internet. 5.Sexual Predators The Internet is host to a plethora of sexual predators. These people use the Internet to gain access to the thoughts of children and young adolescents and expose them to grave dangers. Sexual predators feast on the unsuspecting. The