← All journal articles

Internet: benefits and harms

Internet: benefits and harms

The Internet is a powerful tool that has a significant impact on modern society. It offers many opportunities and benefits, but it also carries certain risks and challenges. In this article, we'll talk about the main pros and cons of the World Wide Web. And if your child can't live without a computer, sign it up in Progkids! We know how to make good use of screen time!

Benefits of Internet technologies

Unlimited access to knowledge

The Internet provides instant access to vast amounts of information on a wide variety of topics. This makes learning, research and self-education easier.

Continuous communication with family and friends

With the help of the Internet, people can easily communicate with each other regardless of where they are. Email, social media, instant messengers, and video calls allow you to stay in touch and share photos, music, and other files.

Affordable income options

The Internet has opened up new opportunities for business and trade: companies and individuals have a chance to sell goods and services online. In addition, many organizations today tend to employ employees remotely, which is very convenient because you can find a job anywhere in the world.

Home schooling

Online courses, webinars, and platforms make education accessible to people around the world, including those who are unable to attend traditional educational institutions.

Relaxation and entertainment

The Internet offers a wide range of entertainment content: movies, music, games, books, and more.

Self-expression and recognition

Social media and platforms for creative people provide an opportunity to express themselves and share their creativity.

The potential dangers of the Internet

Cybersecurity

The Internet opens the door to cybercrimes such as hacking, phishing, identity theft, and fraud.

Addiction

Excessive use of Internet technologies can lead to addiction to social media, online games, and other types of digital content.

Misinformation

The ease of disseminating information online gives rise to fake news, which can be misleading, alarming, etc.

privacy

The collection of user data raises serious concerns about the protection of personal information.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is the use of the Internet to intentionally insult, threaten, or humiliate others. This can cause psychological trauma, reduced self-esteem, etc.

Phishing

Phishing is a fraudulent practice of obtaining sensitive information (such as passwords or credit card details) by defrauding users.

Social isolation

Although there are endless opportunities for communication, the Internet can also contribute to social isolation, where people prefer virtual interactions to real meetings.

Effects on mental health

Constant consumption of negative content can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and depression. Thus, doomscrolling (the habit of constantly scrolling through news feeds on social media) causes sleep problems, decreased mood and productivity.

A reminder to parents: how to protect yourself and your child online

Good online behavior is an important aspect of digital security that helps prevent cyber attacks, protect personal data, and ensure the safe use of online resources. Here are a few key steps to help you stay safe online:

#1 Strong passwords

Create strong passwords. The password must contain a combination of letters (upper and lower case), numbers, and special characters. Don't use the same password for all accounts. Different passwords for different services can help minimize the risk of all your accounts being compromised.

Use password managers. These tools can help you store and generate complex passwords. Change your passwords as often as possible.

#2 Two-factor authentication (2FA)

2FA requires you to enter an additional code sent to your phone or email, which makes it much more difficult to access your account.

#3 Beware of phishing!

Check email senders. Don't open unknown and suspicious links and attachments. Don't enter personal information on unknown sites. Make sure the site is official before entering sensitive information.

#4 Software update

Make sure your operating systems, browsers, and apps are always up to date. This will help protect against known vulnerabilities.

#5 Anti-virus software and firewalls

Install and regularly update an antivirus to protect against malware. Enable a firewall to protect your network from unauthorized access.

#6 Protecting sensitive data

Check your privacy settings on social media and other services to limit access to your personal information. Use encryption to protect data as it travels over the network.

#7 Watch out: public Wi-Fi networks!

Avoid entering sensitive information when using public Wi-Fi networks. If you do need to do this, use a virtual private network (VPN).

#8 Training and awareness

Knowing the basic principles of digital security can help you better protect yourself and your loved ones online. Conscious online behavior reduces the risk of becoming a victim of cyber attacks.

#9 Parental control

Make sure your child only uses safe search engines and apps.

#10 Regular conversations about digital security

Parents should teach their children the basics of safe online behavior: avoid talking to strangers, not divulging personal information, and recognizing potential threats. It is also important to set time limits on Internet use and encourage children to engage in offline activities to maintain a healthy balance.

The Internet offers many opportunities, but it's important to be aware of the dangers and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. The use of modern security technologies, critical thinking and conscious behavior will help minimize risks.

Is your child crazy about IT technologies? Quickly write it down to free trial lesson at Progkids! We know more and more about computers!

You can also read

Courses for kids

Progkids обратная связь

It's easy to sign up for a free class

Already in the first lesson, we'll dive into the basics of development and create a small project that your child will want to brag about.

Submit a request

ok image
Ваша заявка отправлена. Скоро мы свяжемся с Вами
Ошибка при отправке формы