CDI 9- HANDOUTS-PRELIM.

COVERAGE

INTRODUCTION

Computer crime refers to criminal activity involving a computer. The computer may be used in the commission of a
crime or it may be the target. Net-crime refers to criminal use of the internet. Cyber-crimes are essentially a combination
of these two elements and can be best defined as “offenses that are committed against individuals or groups of
individuals with a criminal motive to intentionally harm the reputation of the victim or cause physical or mental harm to
the victim directly or indirectly using modern telecommunication networks such as the internet (chat rooms, emails,
notice boards and groups) and mobile phones (SMS/MMS)”.

There are two main categories that define the make-up of cyber-crimes:

1. Those that target computer network or devices such as viruses, malware, or denial of service attacks.
2. Those that relate to crimes that are facilitated by computer networks or devices like cyber-stalking, fraud,
identity-theft, extortion, phishing (spam) and theft of classified information.

CHAPTER 1- THE COMPUTER AND THE INTERNET

What does computer mean?

A computer is a machine or device that performs processes, calculations and operations based on instructions provided
by software and hardware program. It is designed to execute applications and provides a variety of solutions by
combining integrated hardware and software components.

A computer is made up of multiple parts and components that facilitate user functionality. A computer has two primary
categories.

1. Hardware: Physical structure that houses a computer’s processor, memory, storage, communication ports and
peripheral devices.
2. Software: includes operating system (OS) and software applications

Computer Fundamentals

A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data, stores and processes data into information. The computer is able
to work because there are instructions in its memory directing it. The parts of the computer that you can see and touch,
such as the keyboard, monitor and the mouse are called hardware.

Computers are usually categories into three general categories:

1. Supercomputer - The fastest, largest, most powerful and most expensive computer.

2. Mainframe Computer - This is a little smaller and less powerful than the supercomputer, but like the
supercomputer it is also expensive.
 3. Personal Computer (PC)- This is the computer that most people use in their daily lives. This computer is much
smaller, less powerful and less expensive than the supercomputer and the mainframe computer.

There are two main types of personal computers. Macintosh (Macs) and the PC compatibles (PC). The main difference
between the two is the operating systems and the processors they use. This category of computer has two additional
types of computers. These are mobile computer and handheld computer. The most popular type of mobile computer is
the notebook or laptop computer, and the handheld computer is a very small PC that you can hold in your hand.

It is important to note that, any computer; regardless of its size has an input device, output device and a system unit.

Computer Hardware

You learned earlier that a computer has electronic and mechanical parts known as hardware. Hardware also includes
input devices, output devices, system unit, storage devices and communication devices. Without these components we
would not be able to use the computer.

Input Devices - An input device is any hardware component that allows you the user to enter data into the computer.
There are many input devices.

Six of the most widely used input devices are:

1. Keyboard - You use the keyboard to type letters, numbers, and symbols into the computer.
1. Mouse -The mouse is a pointing device that has a pointer that changes into different shapes as you use the
mouse. You click the mouse by pressing and releasing the button. This action allows you to enter data when
using a mouse.
2. Scanner - This input device copies from paper into your computer.
3. Microphone - The microphone is usually used for voice input into the computer.
4. Digital Camera - The digital camera allows you to take pictures that you can input into your computer.
5. PC Video Camera - The PC video camera allows you take both video and still images that you can input onto your
computer.

Output Devices - An output device is any hardware component that gives information to the user.

Three commonly used output devices are as follow:

1. Monitor - This output device displays your information on a screen,

Computer Software

The computer will not work without software. Software also call programs. These are the instructions that tell
the computer what to do and how o do it. The two main categories of software are system software and application
software. The system software also called the operating system (OS) actually runs the computer. This software controls
all the operations of the computer and its devices. All computers use system software and without the system software
the application software will not work. The most common OS on a PC is the Windows operating system and for the Mac
computer it would be the Mac operating system.

Application software is a program that allows users to a specific task on the computer. There are a number of
different types of application software available to do many of the tasks we do daily.

Four examples of common application software and what they are used for are:
 1. Word Processing Application: One word processing program is Microsoft Word. This program allows you to type
letters, assignments and do any other written activity on the computer.
2. Spreadsheet Application: Microsoft Excel is an example of a spreadsheet program. One can use this program to
create charts and do calculations.
3. E-mail Application: Outlook Express is an e-mail program that allows you to receive and send e-mails.
4. Internet Application: Internet Explorer is a program that allows you to get connected to the Internet and look at
Web sites like the one you are reading now.

It is important to note that when you buy a computer the computer comes with the operating system and some
software already installed. You may have to buy more software and install them on the computer. Install means to load
the software onto the hard disk of the computer so that you can run or use the software.

Like any other equipment the computer needs to be cared for; let us discuss how we should go about caring for our
computer.

Storage Media

Storage keeps data, information and instructions for use in the future. All computers use storage to keep the software
that makes the hardware work.

As a user you store a variety of data and information on your computer or on storage stor media. Storage media are the
physical materials on which data, information and instructions are kept. When a user saves information or data to a
storage medium he or she is storing a file, and this process is called writing. When the file is opened the process is called
reading.

Common storage media are:

1. Hard Drive: This storage medium which looks like the one below, is a hard drive. This medium comes with the
computer and is always inside the computer. It stores all the programs that the computer needs to work. In
addition, users store their data and information on the hard drive.

2. Floppy Disk: This storage medium is considered to be a portable storage medium. You put it into the computer
save your information on it, take it out, and take it with you wherever you go.

3. CD & DVD: These types of storage media hold much more information than a floppy disk. They are also
considered portable storage. These types of storage media come in different forms. This means that there are
CDs and DVDs that you can only save information on but you cannot erase the information. In addition there are
those that can both save information on and erase the information you have saved.
 4. USB Flash Drive: This is a storage medium that is very easy to carry around and it also holds more data than a
floppy disk. As you can see from the picture below it is very small when compared with the others.

Computer Care

Taking care of your computer is just as important as taking care of your books. Both the internal and the external parts of
the computer have to be cared for. Scanning, defragging and reformatting are some of the activities performed to clean
up the hard drive. These activities are best left to a grown up and such you should not attempt them.

However, there are certain tasks you can perform to ensure your computer is clean; here are a few:

1. Keep Dust Away: Dust your computer to keep it free of dust and dirt.
2. Keep Food Away: Do not eat or drink while working on the computer.
3. Use Clean Hands: Make sure your hands are clean before you type on the keyboard of click the mouse.
4. Treat With Respect: If you are having problems with your computer, ask for help. Do not bang or hit the
computer.
5. Keep Off: Seeing that the computer is connected to electricity, this means that lightning could be conducted to
your computer through the electrical connection. For this reason, it is best not to use your computer during a
storm.
6. Stop Virus Attack: A computer virus is a program written by a person on purpose to harm other peoples'
computers. A computer virus is passed from one computer o another when you share and download files
without the protection of an antivirus software. For this reason, you should get permission before downloading
files.
7. Handle With Care: The way you handle your CDs will determine how long they will last. Always hold the CD
correctly.

History of Internet

The Internet Timeline begins in 1962, before the word 'Internet' is invented. The world's 10,000 computers are primitive,
although they cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. They have only a few thousand words of magnetic core memory,
and programming them is far from easy.

Domestically, data communication over the phone lines is an AT & T monopoly. The 'Picturephone' of 1939, shown again
at the New York World's Fair in 1964, is still AT&T's answer to the future of worldwide communications.

But the four-year old Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) of the U.S. Department of Defense, a future-oriented
funder of 'high-risk, high-gain' research, lays the groundwork for what becomes the ARPANET and, much later, the
Internet.

ARPANET adopted TCP/IP on January 1, 1983, and from there researchers began to assemble the "network of networks"
that became the modern Internet. The online world then took on a more recognizable form in 1990, when computer
scientist Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web.
Vint Cerf. Widely known as a "Father of the Internet," Cerf is the co-designer of the TCP/IP protocols and the architecture
of the Internet. In December 1997, President Bill Clinton presented the U.S. National Medal of Technology to Cerf and his
colleague, Robert E. Kahn, for founding and developing the Internet.

Michael Bauer, the original owner of Internet.org before Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, discovered what
became of his treasured domain just like anyone else: while watching Chris Cuomo on CNN.

Meaning of Internet

The Internet, sometimes called simply "the Net," is a worldwide system of computer networks - a network of networks in
which users at any one computer can, if they have permission, get information from any other computer (and sometimes
talk directly to users at other computers).

It is also a means of connecting a computer to any other computer anywhere in the world via dedicated routers and
servers. When two computers are connected over the Internet, they can send and receive all kinds of information such
as text, graphics, voice, video, and computer programs.

Basically, the way the Internet works is by connecting billions of computers together in things called networks. Networks
("Net" for short) are clusters of computers linked together so that they can send data to each other. That is the ISP's
network you are on. The Internet grew out of the Advanced Research Projects Agency's Wide Area Network (then called
ARPANET) established by the US Department Of Defense in 1960s for collaboration in military research among business
and government laboratories.

Later universities and other US institutions connected to it. This resulted in ARPANET growing beyond everyone's
expectations and acquiring the name 'Internet.' Th The development of hypertext based technology (called World Wide
web, WWW, or just the Web) provided means of displaying text, graphics, and animations, and easy search and
navigation tools that triggered Internet's explosive worldwide growth.

Different Types of Internet Connections

There are many ways a personal electronic device can connect to the internet. They all use different hardware and each
has a range of connection speeds. As technology changes, faster internet connections are needed to handle those
changes. I thought it would be interesting to list some of the different types of internet connections that are available for
home and personal use, paired with their average speeds.

1. Dial-Up (Analog 56K). - Dial-up access is cheap but slow. A modem (internal or external) connects to the Internet after
the computer dials a phone number. This analog signal is converted to digital via the modem and sent over a land-line
serviced by a public telephone network. Telephone lines are variable in quality and the connection can be poor at times.
The lines regularly experience interference and this affects the speed, anywhere from 28K to 56K. Since a computer or
other device shares the same line as the telephone, they can't be active at the same time.

2. DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. It is an internet connection that is always "on". This uses 2 lines so your phone is
not tied up when your computer is connected. There is also no need to to dial a phone number to connect. DSL uses a
router to transport data and the range of connection speed, depending on the service offered, is between 128K to 8
Mbps.
3. Cable. Cable provides an internet connection through a cable modem and operates over cable TV lines. There are
different speeds depending on if you are uploading data transmissions or downloading. Since the coax cable provides a
much greater bandwidth over dial-up or DSL telephone lines, you can get faster access. Cable speeds range from 512K to
20 Mbps.

Wireless. Wireless, or Wi-Fi, as the name suggests, does not use telephone lines or cables to connect to the internet.
Instead, it uses radio frequency. Wireless is also an always on connection and it can be accessed from just about
anywhere. Wireless networks are growing in coverage areas by the minute so when I mean access from just about
anywhere, I really mean it. Speeds will vary, and the range is between 5 Mbps 5 Mbps to 20 Mbps.

5. Satellite. Satellite accesses the internet via a satellite in Earth's orbit. The enormous distance that a signal travels from
earth to satellite and back again, provides a delayed connection compared to cable and DSL. Satellite connection speeds
are around 512K to 2.0 Mbps.

6. Cellular. Cellular technology provides wireless Internet access through cell phones. The speeds vary depending on the
provider, but the most common are 3G and 4G speeds. A 3G is a term that describes a 3rd generation cellular network
obtaining mobile speeds of around 2.0 Mbps. 4G is the fourth generation of cellular wireless standards. The goal of 4G is
to achieve peak mobile speeds of 100 Mbps but the reality is about 21 Mbps currently.
 The Internet is one of the fastest-growing areas of technical infrastructure development. Today, information and
communication technologies (ICTs) are omnipresent and the trend towards digitization is growing. The demand for
Internet and computer connectivity has led to the integration of computer technology into products that have usually
functioned without it, such as cars and buildings. Electricity supply, transportation infrastructure, military services and
logistics - virtually all modern services depend on the use of ICTs.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become a fundamental part of daily life, transforming
how we live, work, and interact with the world around us. From the moment we wake up, we are surrounded by ICT
tools, whether it’s checking the weather on our smartphones, setting reminders on digital assistants, or browsing social
media platforms to stay connected with friends and family. At work, ICT is indispensable—emails, virtual meetings, and
cloud-based collaboration tools make communication and task management more efficient than ever before. For
instance, people can now work remotely from anywhere in the world, thanks to tools like Zoom, Google Drive, and Slack,
making geographical barriers almost irrelevant. ICT has also revolutionized learning in education with online courses,
digital textbooks, and interactive apps that allow students to access a vast range of resources from their homes.
Platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera enable learners of all ages to acquire new skills and knowledge at their own
pace. Even in healthcare, ICT plays a crucial role; telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, while
health tracking apps help individuals monitor their fitness and well-being. However, with these benefits come certain
challenges. The overuse of digital technology can lead to issues such as reduced face-to-face interactions, addiction to
screens, and concerns about data privacy. For example, while social media platforms connect people globally, they can
also foster isolation and spread misinformation. Thus, while ICT offers numerous advantages, its impact on daily life
requires careful consideration and balance to maximize its potential while mitigating its risks.

Although the development of new technologies is focused mainly on meeting consumer demands in western
countries. developing countries can also benefit from new technologies. With the availability of long-distance wireless
communication technologies such as WiMAX and computer systems that are now available for less than USD 2006, many
more people in developing countries should have easier access to the Internet and related products and services.

The influence of ICTs on society goes far beyond establishing basic information infrastructure. The availability of
ICTs is a foundation for development in the creation, availability and use of network-based services. E-mails have
displaced traditional letters online web representation is nowadays more important

Advantages and Risks of information and communication technologies (ICTs)

The introduction of ICTs into many aspects of everyday life has led to the development of the modern concept of
the information society. This development of the information society offers great opportunities. Unhindered access to
information can support democracy, as the flow of information is taken out of the control of state authorities (as has
happened, for example, in Eastern Europe and North Africa). Technical developments have improved daily life - for
example, online banking and shopping, the use of mobile data.

In the 21st century, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an integral part of our
everyday lives. From personal to professional environments, ICT tools are embedded in almost every aspect of modern
life. Whether it’s through smartphones, computers, or the internet, ICT plays a crucial role in enhancing our ability to
communicate, access information, and streamline daily tasks. However, as beneficial as ICT can be, its widespread use
comes with its own set of challenges. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of using ICT in daily life.

Advantages of Using ICT in Daily Life

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become indispensable to daily life. From smartphones and
computers to social media platforms and cloud computing, ICT has revolutionized the way we communicate, learn, work,
and entertain ourselves. It has made many aspects of life more convenient, efficient, and interconnected. This article
explores the significant advantages of using ICT in daily life, highlighting how it enhances productivity, improves access to
information, and creates opportunities for social connection and personal growth.

 Enhanced Communication: One of the most profound advantages of ICT is its ability to enhance communication.
Traditionally, communication was limited to face-to-face interactions or telephone calls, which were often
geographically restrictive. With the advent of ICT, communication has become faster, easier, and more global.
Tools like email, instant messaging, and video conferencing have bridged distances, allowing people to connect
instantly, regardless of location. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter further extend this
reach, enabling individuals to share ideas, experiences, and updates in real-time. For businesses, ICT tools such
as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom have revolutionized remote communication, making global collaboration
more seamless and efficient.
 Access to Information and Learning Opportunities: Another key advantage of ICT is the ease of access to
information. The internet has transformed how we find and consume information. Whether it’s for academic
purposes, personal growth, or professional development, the wealth of information available online is
unprecedented. Educational resources like online courses, eBooks, and tutorials are readily available to anyone
with an internet connection. Platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and Udemy offer free and paid courses on a
wide range of subjects, making education more accessible than ever before. Additionally, digital libraries and
research databases allow students, professionals, and researchers to access up-to-date information from around
the world, breaking down traditional barriers to learning.
 Increased Productivity and Efficiency: ICT tools significantly increase productivity and efficiency in both personal
and professional environments. Software applications for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations have
streamlined everyday tasks, allowing individuals and businesses to complete work more quickly and accurately.
Cloud-based tools such as Google Docs and Microsoft 365 facilitate collaboration by enabling multiple users to
work on the same document simultaneously, regardless of their physical location. Project management tools like
Trello, Asana, and Monday.com help individuals and teams stay organized, prioritize tasks, and track progress,
leading to more efficient workflows and timely project completion. For businesses, ICT has enabled the
automation of repetitive tasks, reducing the need for manual labor and minimizing errors. This shift allows
employees to focus on more complex and creative tasks that require human expertise. Furthermore, ICT helps
businesses manage inventory, analyze data, and make informed decisions, resulting in improved customer
service, cost savings, and overall business growth.
 Convenience in Daily Activities: ICT has greatly enhanced the convenience of everyday life. With a smartphone,
individuals can manage nearly every aspect of their day—from setting reminders and making to-do lists to paying
bills and ordering groceries. Mobile banking applications allow users to check their accounts, transfer money,
and pay bills without ever stepping foot inside a bank. Online shopping platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy
offer a wide variety of products that can be purchased from the comfort of one’s home, often with the option of
home delivery. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft make it easier to get from one place to another, while food
delivery services such as DoorDash and Grubhub bring meals directly to consumers’ doorsteps. Additionally, ICT
tools like GPS navigation systems have made it simpler to get from place to place, reducing the time spent
getting lost or searching for directions. These tools contribute to a more efficient and less stressful daily routine,
freeing up time for other activities.
 Improved Healthcare and Well-being: The impact of ICT on healthcare is transformative, making medical
services more accessible and efficient. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, which is
especially beneficial for individuals in rural or underserved areas who may have limited access to healthcare
facilities. Health-monitoring apps and wearable devices like Fitbit and Apple Watch track users’ physical activity,
heart rate, and sleep patterns, encouraging healthier lifestyles. These tools provide real-time data that can help
individuals make informed decisions about their well-being and even alert doctors to potential health issues. In
addition, ICT has facilitated the development of electronic health records (EHR), allowing healthcare providers to
share patient information quickly and accurately. This streamlined process improves diagnosis and treatment,
reduces the risk of medical errors, and enhances the overall quality of care.
 Social Connectivity and Support: ICT has revolutionized how we connect with others, fostering social interaction
and support. Social media platforms allow people to stay in touch with family and friends, no matter the physical
distance between them. Online communities provide spaces for individuals to share experiences, seek advice,
and build support networks. For example, people can join online forums or Facebook groups dedicated to
 hobbies, professional interests, or health issues, creating a sense of belonging and community. This is particularly
valuable for individuals who may feel isolated in their local environments due to geographical or social
limitations. Moreover, ICT enables people to engage with a wider variety of cultures and perspectives,
contributing to greater understanding and empathy in the global community. Video calls and instant messaging
facilitate real-time conversations, allowing people to experience face-to-face interactions without the limitations
of distance.
 Empowerment and Personal Growth: ICT has also empowered individuals by providing them with tools for
personal growth and self-improvement. Online platforms offer a wide range of resources for learning new skills,
whether it’s a foreign language, programming, photography, or even cooking. Apps like Duolingo, Khan Academy,
and MasterClass make it easier for anyone to pursue their passions and develop new abilities. Moreover, social
media provides opportunities for self-expression, as individuals can share their ideas, art, and achievements with
a global audience. For people in marginalized or remote communities, ICT offers a means of empowerment by
granting access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities that were once difficult to attain. This
democratization of resources is a powerful force for change, improving the quality of life for many individuals
worldwide.

The advantages of using ICT in daily life are undeniable. From enhancing communication and providing easy
access to information to increasing productivity and improving healthcare, ICT has transformed the way we live, work,
and interact with the world. While there are challenges that come with increased reliance on technology, the benefits of
ICT far outweigh the disadvantages when used responsibly. As we continue to embrace the digital age, ICT will
undoubtedly play an even greater role in shaping the future, creating new opportunities for individuals and societies
alike.

Disadvantages of Using ICT in Daily Life

While Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has revolutionized the way we live, work, and interact, it
has also introduced several challenges and disadvantages. The rapid integration of ICT into daily life has brought about
significant changes, but these transformations are not without their drawbacks. This article will explore the various
disadvantages of using ICT in daily life, shedding light on the potential risks it poses to privacy, health, social interactions,
and the environment.

 Privacy and Security Concerns: One of the most significant disadvantages of using ICT is the threat it poses to
personal privacy and data security. With the increasing amount of personal information shared online,
individuals become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks, identity theft, and data breaches. Social media platforms,
e-commerce websites, and online banking systems all store sensitive information, and these data repositories
are frequent targets for hackers. For example, major data breaches have affected millions of people, exposing
personal details like credit card numbers, social security numbers, and passwords. Additionally, the tracking of
online activities by companies for advertising and marketing purposes raises concerns about privacy invasion.
Many people are unaware of the extent to which their online behavior is being monitored and analyzed, and this
constant surveillance can lead to a loss of control over personal information.
 Over-Dependence on Technology: Another major disadvantage of ICT is the growing over-dependence on
technology. With the increasing reliance on digital devices for communication, entertainment, work, and daily
tasks, people may find it difficult to function without access to technology. This dependence can lead to
problems when devices fail, networks go down, or there is a lack of internet access. For instance, if a person’s
smartphone breaks or they experience a power outage, they may struggle to complete simple tasks like checking
emails, making appointments, or navigating to a location. Moreover, over-dependence on technology can result
in a lack of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. With so many tasks automated or facilitated by
technology, individuals may become less capable of solving problems manually or thinking through situations
without the aid of digital tools.
 Health Issues: The excessive use of ICT devices has been linked to various health problems, both physical and
mental. One of the most common physical health issues associated with ICT is “digital eye strain,” caused by
prolonged screen time. This condition can lead to headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck pain. The blue
light emitted from screens, particularly from smartphones and computers, has also been associated with
disrupted sleep patterns, as it interferes with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.
On a mental health level, excessive use of digital devices can contribute to stress, anxiety, and
depression. Social media, in particular, can be a source of negative emotions, with users often comparing
themselves to others, leading to feelings of inadequacy or isolation. The constant flow of information and
notifications can also overwhelm individuals, contributing to mental fatigue and a reduced ability to focus.
 Moreover, the sedentary lifestyle associated with prolonged screen use has been linked to obesity and other
chronic health issues, as many people spend hours on their devices without engaging in physical activity.
 Social Isolation and Reduced Face-to-Face Interaction: While ICT has made it easier to stay connected with
others through social media and messaging apps, it has also contributed to social isolation. Many people spend
more time interacting online rather than engaging in face-to-face conversations, leading to a decline in real-
world social skills. This shift in communication patterns can result in weakened personal relationships, as online
interactions are often more superficial than in-person ones. For example, younger generations who are
constantly using smartphones may find it difficult to communicate in person, which can lead to social anxiety and
a lack of social bonding. The convenience of online communication has also made it easier for people to avoid
difficult conversations, such as conflict resolution or deep, meaningful discussions, which are essential for
maintaining strong relationships.
 Spread of Misinformation and Fake News: The rise of ICT has made it easier for information to be shared quickly
and widely, but this also means that misinformation and fake news can spread at an alarming rate. Social media
platforms, blogs, and websites allow anyone to post content, and this content is often not fact-checked before
being shared. As a result, misleading information, rumors, and conspiracy theories can gain traction and cause
harm to individuals, communities, and even societies at large.
In some cases, fake news has led to serious consequences, such as public panic, political instability, and
the spread of harmful health advice. The ability to manipulate images, videos, and audio clips using ICT tools has
made it even harder to differentiate between truth and falsehood, further exacerbating the problem.
 Job Displacement and Automation: As ICT continues to advance, many traditional jobs are being replaced by
automation and artificial intelligence (AI). Tasks that were once performed by human workers, such as customer
service, data entry, and manufacturing, are increasingly being automated, leading to job displacement. For
example, self-checkout kiosks in supermarkets and AI-powered chatbots in customer service are slowly replacing
human workers.
While automation can increase efficiency and reduce costs for businesses, it also raises concerns about
unemployment and the future of work. As machines and AI take over more tasks, workers in certain industries
may find it difficult to adapt and may require retraining to stay relevant in the job market.
 Environmental Impact: The environmental impact of ICT is another growing concern. The production, use, and
disposal of electronic devices contribute to e-waste, which is one of the fastest-growing waste streams
worldwide. Electronic devices, such as smartphones, computers, and televisions, contain harmful materials like
lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into the environment if not properly disposed of. Furthermore, the
energy consumption required to power ICT devices and data centers contributes to the growing carbon footprint
of digital technologies. As more people use cloud storage, stream videos, and rely on digital platforms, the
demand for electricity to power these services continues to rise, exacerbating climate change.
 Digital Divide: While ICT has made significant advancements in connecting people, it has also highlighted the
digital divide—the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not. In many
parts of the world, particularly in rural or underdeveloped areas, access to the internet, computers, and
smartphones remains limited. This disparity limits opportunities for education, employment, and social
participation, as people without access to ICT are left behind in the digital age.
The digital divide is also evident in developed countries, where socioeconomic factors can determine
who has access to the latest technologies and who does not. Those without access to ICT tools may face
difficulties in finding information, applying for jobs, or participating in online education.