Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 26 to 30.

The latest addiction to trap thousands of people is Internet, (26) _____ has been blamed for broken relationships, job losses, financial ruin and even one suicide. Psychologists now recognize Internet Addiction Syndrome (IAS) as a new illness that could (27) _____ serious problems and ruin many lives. Special help groups have been set up to offer sufferers help and support.

IAS is similar to (28) _____ problems like gambling, smoking and drinking; addicts have dreams about Internet; they need to use it first thing in the morning; they lie to their partners about how much time they spend online; they wish they could cut down, but are unable to do so. A recent study found that many users spend up to 40 hours a week on the Internet; (29) _____ they felt guilty, they became depressed if they were made to stop using it.

Almost anyone can be at risk. Some of the addicts are teenagers who are already hooked on computer games and who (30) _____ it very difficult to resist the games on the Internet.