Ethical Considerations in Internet Research

In internet research, ethical issues arise from and are dependent on the utilization of various venues and contexts.

Ambiguity in determining risks in internet research arises from the virtual interaction between the researcher and the participant, and their unfamiliarity with existing technologies.

There are limited means of gauging participant characteristics (e.g., age) and how participants respond to the study in internet research.

Ethical decision-making in internet research is a deliberative process, and researchers should consult as many people and resources as possible in this process.

It is unrealistic to expect a single set of guidelines to address every situation in internet research due to diversity across internet cultures, values, and modes of operation.

Researchers do not need to consult fellow researchers, people participating in or familiar with contexts/sites being studied, research review boards, ethics guidelines, published scholarship, and legal precedent in the ethical decision-making process for internet research.

Researchers are expected to prominently post links to privacy policy statements and terms of service on the online site.

In internet research, it is acceptable for a single researcher to conduct the study without being familiar with internet security, as long as they have a plan to receive queries from participants.

Researchers must treat online identities (personas or avatars) and their corresponding character names differently from real ones.

It is necessary for the study team to include a member familiar with technical issues concerning Internet security, including additional safeguards.

Ethical decision-making in internet research does not require consulting fellow researchers, research review boards, ethics guidelines, and legal precedent.

Researchers must justify collecting data via the internet for studies that are typically conducted in person.

If a study involves more than minimal risk, researchers and the REC must ensure measures to protect the rights and welfare of the participants.

Researchers are not required to inform respondents and obtain their consent to use their data if individuals have reasonable expectations of privacy, confidentiality, anonymity, and safety.

Researchers must adhere to the applicable provisions of RA 10173 regarding the collection, use, and storage of personal information in internet research.

Internet-based recruitment methods and materials do not need the approval of the REC to ensure their ethical soundness.