Final answer:
The heightened internet usage has increased HIPAA compliance challenges and the need for strict online data protection. Entities handling sensitive health information must adhere to internet privacy laws and cybersecurity regulations to protect patient privacy and security.
Step-by-step explanation:
The increase in accessing information on the internet has indeed heightened the demand for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) implementation. With digital records becoming a norm, especially in healthcare, HIPAA compliance challenges have become more significant. These challenges are critical to ensuring patient privacy and the secure handling of health information by entities like insurance companies and healthcare providers. In the face of rising cyber threats and online data protection concerns, organizations must navigate both internet privacy laws and cybersecurity regulations. Data breaches at large companies have exposed millions to identity theft risks, prompting government regulation to ensure the right balance between individual privacy and collective security.
Additionally, the threat of personal information being used without consent for marketing or other purposes is a growing concern. Government policies like the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and actions by the federal government to regulate the storage of personal data by private companies represent efforts to safeguard personal information in the digital age. Understanding privacy rights and regularly reviewing privacy policies are amongst strategies individuals can employ for personal data protection.