Fernandez,

less social bonds have formed, as people are only moving pixels in a screen and not real living, breathing entities deserving of love and respect. It is further a deterioration of social mores and values that affirmation for one’s worth and individuality is dependent upon entities that are disconnected but appear on the social media pages and outlets.

The dependence upon cyberspace has not come without new dangers that lurk in the digital universe. Identity theft and hacking computer systems are twin dangers that have presented themselves. In particular, hacking of systems for ransom is especially pernicious as hackers have invaded hospital and bank systems and threatened to destroy files unless ransom has been paid. Identity theft is also another danger as individual financial records, particularly credit card data and ATM card data, are hacked or stolen and unauthorized withdrawals are made. This has happened to several depositors of large Philippine banks. It has also happened to the Central Bank of Bangladesh.

Now, even the traditional concept of money has been challenged by the rise of the cryptocurrency, where the “wealth” is hidden in cyberspace. Despite its newness to the scene, it has been taken hold significantly by individuals who desire to keep wealth anonymous. Again, despite its socalled security, there have been ample reports of hackings and cyber- robberies and scams related to cryptocurrencies.

Our lives are now largely dependent on advances in computer technology. While it was originally deemed to benefit humanity, it has evolved new dangers to health, wealth and security, both personal and corporate. Very large resources have now been developed simply counteract the efforts of hackers and other criminal elements.

The pristine nature of cyberspace has now been invaded by the proverbial snake: mankind’s dark nature to perform evil. The benefits of cyberspace now are plastered with warning signs: CAVEAT EMPTOR.