The Internet is a vast world of virtual information. Activities such as online shopping and social networking sites have made people question how private their own information is compared to the rest of the Internet. Can the average person completely control their privacy, or are parts of their personal information beyond their control? Along the same lines, is online privacy the sole responsibility of the individual? I've found that online privacy can be difficult to completely control due to different types of tracking and third-party devices. That said, although these devices can obtain private information in very subtle ways, being informed about information collection methods can help a person make better decisions about their privacy on the Internet. However, complete confidentiality is unlikely (Mitchell, 2013). In the Engineering and Technology Journal, two engineers, Gareth Mitchell and Guy Clapperton, gave their thoughts on both sides of the privacy issue. Does the collection of information violate privacy? They made their arguments using currency as a metaphor for personal information and online services as a product. Mitchell argues that disclosing personal information is “too high a price to pay” (Mitchell, 2013, p. 26). He says that despite the ability to decline cookies and certain information, many sites are more secretive and make their opt-out option less accessible than a pop-up asking to unsubscribe. The site makes it difficult for the Internet user to say no to tracking. Mitchell warns the reader to pay more attention to the information they disclose and that “privacy should not be taken for granted” (Mitchell, 2013, p. 26). Obtaining information from the Internet would mean tra...... middle of paper ......, websites and online marketers are finding ways to circumvent users' precautions to obtain personal information. Many people want to use personal information such as credit card numbers or addresses to harm others. These cases are the extremely negative ones that people want and should avoid. The case for companies and third parties tracking browsing history and other information for advertising purposes swings between good and bad. For some people, tracking may be considered convenient when it comes to purchasing what they are interested in, and others may be uncomfortable with the idea of ​​being unknowingly tracked. As noted at the beginning, complete privacy is unlikely, but being informed about Internet tactics can help protect oneself and others in one's care by being as careful and private as possible..