The Transformative Impact and Risks of the Internet in 2024
In 2024, global connectivity has reached unprecedented levels, enabling instant communication across continents. Two decades ago, the central concern regarding the Internet was not merely its technological evolution but the management of this evolutionary process. Originating from early packet switching research and the ARPANET, the Internet has evolved through technological advancements, global collaboration, and commercialization, establishing a vast and dynamic information infrastructure (Internet Society).
Telemedicine and digital health resources have enhanced medical access, particularly in remote regions. By connecting researchers, developers, and professionals across fields and locations, the Internet promotes collaboration and innovation.
The Internet has revolutionized communication, business, and society, offering myriad benefits. It facilitates instant global communication through emails, messaging apps, and video calls, connecting people worldwide. Access to a wealth of information on diverse topics—from educational resources to entertainment—has become universally accessible. Online learning platforms, tutorials, and courses have democratized education, making learning flexible and adaptable for all ages.
Furthermore, the Internet has spurred economic growth by creating new job opportunities, supporting remote work, and fostering the growth of e-commerce and online enterprises. Social media platforms enable individuals to maintain connections, share experiences, and form communities based on mutual interests. Streaming services, online gaming, and digital content provide extensive entertainment options. Telemedicine and digital health resources have enhanced medical access, particularly in remote regions. By connecting researchers, developers, and professionals across fields and locations, the Internet promotes collaboration and innovation. Online banking, shopping, and service bookings simplify daily tasks, enhancing efficiency and saving time.
An Inherent Risk
Despite these benefits, the Internet presents inherent risks. Generation Z has demonstrated the Internet’s power in driving societal change through social media activism. Especially during the Anti Finance Bill Protests in late June and early July, which unfortunately saw the deaths of many young Kenyans. However, alongside its benefits, the Internet harbours significant dangers, such as the dark web.
The dark web operates outside standard search engines and necessitates specialized software like Tor (The Onion Router) for access. It ensures anonymity by masking IP addresses and encrypting communications. While the dark web serves legitimate purposes like privacy-focused forums and whistleblower platforms, it also facilitates illicit activities such as drug trafficking and illegal arms sales. Its anonymity makes it attractive to both privacy advocates and criminal enterprises.
Ensuring Online Safety
To mitigate risks, proactive measures are essential. Utilizing applications like Dashlane (https://www.dashlane.com/) enables dark web monitoring, protecting individuals and businesses from cyber threats. Criminals on the dark web purchase personal information, including Bank Identification Numbers (BINs), personal emails, and images, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Additionally, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) establishes a secure, encrypted connection between devices and the Internet, ensuring privacy and enabling access to restricted content. VPNs are crucial for safeguarding personal information from illegal auctions and enhancing online security.
Prioritizing privacy alongside innovation, individuals, and societies can harness the Internet’s full potential while safeguarding against its inherent risks.
Further Strategies for Safety:
- Regular Backups: Essential for businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs, regular backups protect against data loss and ransomware attacks. They enable data recovery without ransom payment and safeguard against hardware failures, accidental deletions, or software errors. Automating backups using dedicated software, scheduling regular updates, and storing data in multiple locations, including cloud storage, ensures reliable protection.
- Install Antivirus Software: Reliable antivirus software is vital for detecting and preventing malware and cyber threats. It scans files and websites for malicious code, provides real-time protection by monitoring system activities, and updates regularly to counter emerging threats. Choosing reputable antivirus software from trusted providers enhances cybersecurity with features like email scanning, phishing protection, and firewall integration.
- Limit Personal Information: Caution in sharing personal details online is critical for privacy and safety. High-profile cases, such as rapper PnB Rock’s targeting after location disclosure, which led to his murder, underscore the risks of oversharing. Similarly, flaunting wealth on social media can make individuals targets for theft or exploitation. Criminals exploit online information, targeting individuals based on shared addresses, routines, or holiday plans. Balancing online presence with privacy measures mitigates risks and ensures safer digital interactions, particularly on platforms like Instagram, where flaunting luxury items may attract unwanted attention.
In conclusion, the Internet’s transformative impact on society underscores its potential for positive change and economic growth. As Kenya and other nations advance in digital connectivity and security, learning from global experiences and adopting robust online safety practices will be critical. By prioritizing privacy alongside innovation, individuals, and societies can harness the Internet’s full potential while safeguarding against its inherent risks. Achieving this balance is essential for a secure digital future and sustainable development.
References
1st link (Internet Society) : https://www.internetsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ISOC-History-of-the-Internet_1997.pdf
Internet has revolutionized how information is shared and consumed. It has also brought unique challenges especially when you speak of globalization. I believe the good outweigh the bad, educating the users will make it even more better.
Well written piece and quite educating. Thank you Jesee
Thanks so much sir I definitely agree with you the good outweighs the evil.