Internet Infidelity and the Ashley Madison Scandal

As the recent Ashley Madison hack took the journalism world by storm, many have taken a closer look at the concept of cheating and how it should be defined. Infidelity has expanded from having sex with someone else to a much broader range of conduct, as technology has enabled people to find new and creative ways of engaging in cybersex outside of marriage. Online chat rooms, webcam peepshows and steamy emails can all be considered to be major betrayals of trust, leaving an unfortunate trail of broken marriages in their wake.

Why Are Online Relationships Popular?

Internet affairs have increased in popularity due to the fact that they are easily accessible, affordable, and anonymous. With just a few clicks, one can find themselves in a sea of online mischief from nearly any device that allows internet access. People have this power at their fingertips, and the temptation is easy to succumb to given the simple nature of online infidelity. Cyber relationships are inexpensive to maintain and do not come with the price tag of sustaining a traditional affair, both monetarily and with regards to time spent. Possibly the most enticing aspect is their anonymity. Hiding an online relationship is incredibly easy, as a person can deactivate user accounts, delete emails and wipe internet histories.

The now infamous Canada based online cheating service Ashley Madison is at the center of this controversy following a security breach that resulted in the exposure of over 36 million user profiles. Along with outing numerous government officials and reality TV stars, the data hack has shown the staggering scale of just how vastly online cheating has grown.

If an online extramarital affair has caused irreparable damage to your relationship, Tampa divorce Lawyer Catherine W. Real can help you navigate through the process of divorce and help you with your family law needs. Having been serving the residents of Tampa for over 35 years, her firm can compassionately administer a peaceful transition out of your marriage.