404 Day

April 4^th every year is considered as 404 Day.

History of 404 Day

A 404 (pronounced "four four") is a computer error message that indicates a web server has been connected to, but the server cannot find what is requested. These messages are often accompanied by the phrase "not found." Usually the information can't be found because the links are broken or dead, which means the pages have been moved or deleted. Web hosts often create custom 404 pages containing the site's description, branding, and humor. The 404th day occurs on the fourth day of the fourth month of the year.

In the past, the Electronic Frontier Foundation has used the day to fight internet censorship in schools and libraries. They've partnered with the Center for Civil Media at MIT and the National Coalition against Censorship, and encouraged librarians and bloggers to get involved by sharing stories about censorship. In this case, the information cannot be accessed not because of the 404 message, but because of censorship; In particular, the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) requires schools and libraries to restrict access to certain websites those with sexually explicit and obscene images in order for them to receive resources. In the process, many other websites are blocked, such as those with educational information, health information about breast cancer and sexual health, LGBTQ information, information about unorthodox religions and art museum sites. These are websites that are fully constitutionally compliant, so they are protected and their censorship is considered a First Amendment violation.

How to celebrate 404 Day

Do you have any idea for celebrating this day? The first way for you is to find 404 error pages that are funny and amusing. Moreover, another way to celebrate is to raise awareness about censorship and educate others about laws like the Children's Internet Protection Act.