In the article “11 Illegal Things You Unknowingly Do on the Internet” (2021) Andriy Slynchuk lists activities that people unknowingly do that are illegal. Of the list, the most serious offenses are using copyrighted images, sharing images/personal information without information, using torrents, cyber bullying and collecting information on children.
Although there are situations where copyright and information policies are violated on purpose, using copyrighted images without permission and sharing images and personal information without consent can be done unwittingly without bad intent. A situation where this might happen is if images are used as part of a project and are not sourced. Similarly, information may be exchanged to communicate and collaborate, and users that are deficient in privacy laws may share information without fully getting the consent of all parties. Even if done without bad intent, doing so can result in the privacy breaches which they can be held responsible for, as well as collateral offenses such as in the case of personal information of minors because their information posted without consent, which can put them in danger.
Similarly, cyberbullying and torrenting is illegal. Cyberbullying can have very detrimental effects to its victims, and torrenting and streaming music or movies illegally can damage profits for businesses. Some people may not see their communication as cyberbullying, either due to personal beliefs or upbringing. Some users might see torrenting as sharing and not stealing music and videos. Regardless of the source of their lack of empathy or ethical compass when it comes to piracy, both are illegal.
The above activities are the most serious offenses because of the consequences regardless of if they are intentionally used nefarious purposes or if they are easily accidentally done by uninformed internet users that do not know of the consequences facing the victims and violators. The internet is a useful tool that allows vast access to information but is also governed by rules and policies that help protect people and property. Users should take great care in making sure that their activities are not illegal.
References:
Slynchuk, A. (2021, June 1). 11 illegal things you unknowingly do on the internet. 11 Illegal Things You Unknowingly Do on the Internet. https://clario.co/blog/illegal-things-you-do-online/