"With the growth of the Internet and the use of e-commerce, you're going to get more and more of these situations, " said Bob Lewin, executive director of TRUSTe, a Cupertino, Calif.

CNN: Is the e-commerce boom fueling security holes?

But the course-changes this category has been making are extraordinarily different from the ones that were expected, reminiscent, for those who were there at the introduction of the internet, of when access and e-mail, and a raft of what-you-currently-get-for-free, was being charged for.

FORBES: Are Video Streams Overflowing, And Will You Pay For It?

Ms. NANCY FLYNN (Founder and Executive Director, ePolicy Institute): The courts have tended to rule that even if your employer has not alerted you that Internet and e-mail activity is being monitored, any employee should be reasonably assume that when you log on, Big Brother is going to be reading over your electronic shoulder.

NPR: Is Web-Surfing a Job Hazard?

With the advent of the Internet and e-commerce, it's now possible to be a complete hermit and still shop 'til you drop (your mouse, that is).

CNN: Best free stuff online: Catering to consumers