SECURITY AND CONFIDENTIALITY ON THE INTERNET
INTRODUCTION:
The growing interest in social sites in scientific research as well as in business has led to a sharp increase in the analysis of such sites. The tools and methods to technically analyze such sites are developed and are being enhanced. One major question though seems to be left mostly unattended: If one takes the relationship data in a site like e.g. MySpace, what is the ‘real’ interpretation of the social network analysis? There is no clear definition as to the meaning of a link. Is it friendship, acquaintance, awareness? When analyzing the dynamics of such a site, the question of time dependent relevance of links is added to this problem. In this talk these points will be addressed with the goal of bringing into the focus of the discussion the content driven interpretation of the analysis of social sites.
The large number of users involved, coupled with the fact that their activity is occurring on the web, provide for the first time a unique opportunity to monitor the “microscopic” behavior of users and link it to the high-level dynamics of applications, by using formal tools and concepts from the science of complexity.
As storage capacities rise and as more powerful computational engines make it possible to search huge volumes of information in ways not possible before, we develop new ways of relating to information.
DISCUSSION:
Use of the Internet for counseling and information services has increased dramatically in the last five years. Although the Internet may benefit consumers by helping them secure needed services and resources, social workers and social service agencies who provide counseling over the Internet need to be aware of the legal risks associated with its use. Among the most salient concerns that need to be addressed are client confidentiality and privacy of records, appropriateness of treatment services, and the duty to warn others of harm that a client might pose to them. This paper looks at these legal concerns in light of appropriate Social Work practice and recommends methods to abate the risks that might occur when Internet counseling and service is provided.
Every year, thousands of people are victims of identity theft.
While recent developments in telecommunications and computer processing make it easier for companies and consumers to reach each other, they can also scatter your personal information more widely, making life easier for criminals.
Identity theft is the unauthorized collection and use of your personal information, usually for criminal purposes.
Your name, date of birth, address, credit card, Social Insurance Number (SIN) and other personal identification numbers can be used to open credit card and bank accounts, redirect mail, establish cellular phone service, rent vehicles, equipment, or accommodation, and even secure employment.
If this happens, you could be left with the bills, charges, bad cheques, and taxes.
CONCLUSIONS:
How to minimise identity theft
Minimize the risk. Be careful about sharing personal information or letting it circulate freely.
When you are asked to provide personal information, ask how it will be used, why it is needed, who will be sharing it and how it will be safeguarded.
Give out no more than the minimum, and carry the least possible with you.
Be particularly careful about your SIN; it is an important key to your identity, especially in credit reports and computer databases.
Don't give your credit card number on the telephone, by electronic mail, or to a voice mailbox, unless you know the person with whom you're communicating or you initiated the communication yourself, and you know that the communication channel is secure.
Take advantage of technologies that enhance your security and privacy when you use the Internet, such as digital signatures, data encryption, and "anonymizing" services.
Pay attention to your billing cycle. If credit card or utility bills fail to arrive, contact the companies to ensure that they have not been illicitly redirected.
Notify creditors immediately if your identification or credit cards are lost or stolen.
Access your credit report from a credit reporting agency once a year to ensure it's accurate and doesn't include debts or activities you haven't authorized or incurred.
