Spam and JavaScript, future of the web

Abstract

Purpose

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Design/methodology/approach

A means of preventing automated collection of e‐mail addresses from web sites, dating from 2001, is compared to a similar scheme developed independently at a later date. Discussions of the future of the web, particularly its extension as the Semantic Web, are reviewed. The influence of the internet is illustrated by reference to its part in a recent military decision.

Findings

There is choice of the precise method to be used to prevent automated collection of addresses from web sites. The world wide web is set to evolve into the Semantic Web. Despite notoriety in a particular context the Drudge report provides a valuable service.

Practical implications

Marginal advantages are claimed for my anti‐spam scheme over its predecessor, which however has the advantage of simplicity. The choice will be influenced by the view taken of possible developments in address‐gathering web‐crawlers. Development of the Semantic Web offers valuable and exciting prospects but does not displace web activities at less abstract levels. The Drudge report offers comprehensive access to current and recent news and is associated with an archive going back to 2001.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.

Citation

Andrew, A.M. (2008), "Spam and JavaScript, future of the web", Kybernetes, Vol. 37 No. 9/10, pp. 1463-1465. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920810907797