Digital Etiquette

Digital etiquette is defined as “the standards of conduct expected by other digital technology users” (Ribble & Bailey, 2007). In other words, Digital conduct refers to how people should behave when using the internet. It is expected that users behave in an appropriate and responsible way when using technology and it is important to teach those who do not have digital etiquette how to behave in an ethical manner. Inappropriate conduct would include; sexual harassment, cyber-bullying, verbal abuse, fraud, child pornography, and racism. Inappropriate conduct has a huge affect on society as it is easier for people to behave inappropriately over the internet where they can remain anonymous. Cyber-bullying causes psychological, emotional and physical stress which has led to many suicides which has impacted negatively on society. Families are torn apart, lives are lost and money is lost as a result of inappropriate digital conduct. Sexual harassment is also another issue that impacts on society as people are left traumatized and scared for the rest of their life. The problem with inappropriate conduct is that there are no ramifications because people remain anonymous which is why it is so hard to put it to an end.