Internet privacy and security have become the concern of many people in recent years. There are a very limited number of laws that have been enacted to combat computer or cybercrime. This has become a problem because as the Internet becomes more and more popular, so does the criminal and immoral behavior that is pervasive on it. As these crimes increase in impact, effectiveness and frequency, they must have greater impact. The United States government must strengthen restrictions on the amount and type of data about individuals from the Internet, to prevent the government from invading citizens' privacy and to prevent companies from storing browsing histories individuals, and then sell this information to advertising agencies and other companies. As mentioned above, in recent years the Internet has grown in popularity, leading to some concerns regarding laws regarding the cloud. Few laws have been created to protect Internet users from non-consensual use of personal information. “Usually the only legal precedent restricting a company is its own privacy policy, but most companies give you a sense of protection without any legality behind it” (2013, CQ researcher, Big data and Privacy). This is a problem because without laws and policies protecting private Internet users, companies will be able to do whatever they want with the information and nothing will stop them. One of the main reasons why the United States needs to increase restrictions on the type and amount of data collected. on individuals on the Internet is because the United States government can track the communications and browsing histories of private citizens without warrant or reason. After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, ...... middle of paper ...... positions from their college years, this may impact whether or not that person is hired. As can be seen, the need for these restrictions and legal repercussions is necessary for the individual Internet user. As the information presented shows, the need for laws and restrictions regarding data collection on the Internet is absolutely necessary. Additionally, the government can view private citizens' data without a warrant or reason. Additionally, companies not only collect people's data, but also sell it. Companies and agencies that commit such crimes should be fined or shut down. In conclusion, the privacy and security of individuals on the Internet should be guaranteed by the United States government. References Price, T. (October 25, 2013). Big data and privacy. CQ Researcher, 23, 909-932. Retrieved from http://rockcc.triadhosting.net:2059/cqresearcher/