Numerous Internet users navigate through websites and publish writing, pictures, and videos with the belief that their personal identities are anonymous to others. In the past, this sense of anonymity may have been justified. However, as technology continues to advance, it is becoming more and more difficult to remain anonymous online. Every time an individual updates their online status or publishes a photo, they are leaving small traces of their online identity. Even if a website offers secrecy, sophisticated search programs and software can likely be used to identify the “anonymous” users. In considering the changing condition of online identity, I have decided to research the question of whether the possibility of online anonymity is diminishing.
Through the use of ambiguous user names, site members can craft identities for themselves based on their writing and other publications, rather than accurate personal information. Still, the opportunity to write without having to take responsibility for one’s words may influence individuals to fail to consider the impact of their publications on internet users. Though Internet users may be allowed the freedom to write and publish their thoughts without claiming authorship of their work, should users remain aware of the possibility of losing their right to anonymity should their online publications prove harmful to others? In what ways should the law be able to interfere with online identity? It is even still realistic for websites to offer members anonymity? Furthermore, how would the elimination of online anonymity change the material that Internet users publish on the web?
I plan to look deeper into these questions through my research. I suspect that the possibility of online anonymity is becoming less and less realistic. As technology continues to advance and as the law adapts to fight crime online, Internet users will not only be discouraged but prevented from remaining anonymous. Through my research, I hope to offer insight into the evolution of the Internet and how advancements online are contributing to the end of online anonymity.
I will begin my research by exploring the following websites:
“Benefits of OpenID.” Openid.net. http://openid.net/get-an-openid/individuals/. 9/13/09.
Dignan, Larry. “Obama taps OpenID for government websites.” ZDNet.com. http://news.zdnet.co.uk/security/0,1000000189,39746744,00.htm. 9/14/09.
Perez, Sarah.“The End of Online Anonymity.” ReadWriteWeb.com. http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/the_end_of_online_anonymity.php. 9/13/09.
Whitelaw, Kevin. “Gotcha! Why Online Anonymity May Be Fading.” NPR.org. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112450627. 9/14/09.
Whittaker, Zach. “Should the anonymity shroud be lifted online?” Zdnet.com. http://blogs.zdnet.com/igeneration/?p=2663. 9/14/09.
Monday, September 14, 2009
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