Intelligence on the Internet

The Internet has become a world-wide phenomenon. Home computers with Internet hook-up are becoming increasingly popular. Our society’s children depend on the Internet to help them research their homework assignments. But, can we always trust what we find on-line?

The answer is a resounding “no”. With the Internet being so easily accessible and available on an international basis, anybody with even the most limited technological knowledge can build a website and post his/her personal opinions for all to see. Jim Johnson in Prague could openly rant about terrorism while Betty-Lou Findlay in California could share her perhaps-distorted views on American politics. Therefore, one must take precautions when surfing on-line and always remain skeptical of what one reads. As well, consider the number of “hits” when conducting a search through any search engine. In typing in “trusting Internet” on Google, I was presented with 1,180,000 possible hits. Over one million options? Who can trust them all?

There are methods to test website validity. First, consider the source. Is this information from a recognized, reputable company or an individual? The Ford Motor Company of Canada is known to many; Betty-Lou Findlay is an unknown. Next, evaluate who wrote the material on-line … was this a company CEO or a subject matter expert? What are the writer’s credentials? Next, evaluate the primary purpose of the website … is this to share important business facts and figures or to simply offer a product or service for sale? Finally, look for when the website was last updated. One of the benefits of the Internet is that marketing material can be replaced on a regular basis and websites can remain fresh. If the site, however, still includes an outdated news release from several years ago or a long-expired offer, you would be best to move on.

If you are buying something on-line, take extra care. Remember there is no handy change room to physically try on clothes you’ve found. Keep your Internet purchases small, print off any copies of purchase orders/receipts that you receive via e-mail and, perhaps, use a secondary credit card with a lower spending limit. On the chance that your personal information may be stolen, the thief will be restricted in any forthcoming shopping spree. 

The message here is clear. Yes, the Internet can be a very convenient and useful research tool but do not immediately trust everything you read.

article by Rick Lauber is a published freelance writer whose work has been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines. When not writing, Rick enjoys visiting his favourite second-hand CD stores, taking long walks and playing pool. rlauber@canada.com.