What is a potential risk of harm unique to internet-based research?

The potential risk of harm unique to internet-based research is that individuals may inadvertently share private identifiable information. This is particularly relevant in online environments where participants may not fully understand the implications of sharing personal data. When filling out surveys or participating in research online, individuals might provide information that can identify them—such as names, addresses, or other personal details—without realizing that these disclosures may lead to breaches of their privacy or confidentiality.

In internet-based research, data collection typically occurs via platforms where anonymity and privacy protections can be difficult to ensure, especially if participants are not adequately informed about the risks. Consequently, the risk of inadvertent sharing of identifiable information highlights the necessity for researchers to implement strong data protection measures and to educate participants about the nature of the information they are providing.

Other potential risks mentioned in the other choices may occur in various research methodologies, but the specific nature of internet-based research makes the inadvertent sharing of identifiable information a distinctive concern.