Look Both Ways

Assessing the Risks

Searching and browsing is how we all navigate online, and, as evidenced by research by the Pew Internet & American Life Project shown in Table 12-1, it has become a critically important way for us to get the information we need.

Table 12-1. The Growing Role of the Internet in Decision-Making

Number of Americans for whom the Internet was crucial or important at major moments (in millions)
Activity	2005	2002
Gotten additional training for your career	21	14
Helped another person with a major illness or medical condition	17	11
Chosen a school or college for yourself or your child	17	12
Bought a car	16	13
Made a major investment or financial decision	16	11
Found a new place to live	10	7
Changed jobs	8	7
Dealt on your own with a major illness or other health ...