• How can you tell if your computer is safe?

In order for a computer to be considered “safe,” there needs to be security measures in place for it to have that label. Additionally, the level of security on that computer depends on the number of safety measures that are placed on it. In other words, the more protective actions on the computer the safer it is against cyber threats. One security measure, which is a basic one, is always keeping the operating system and other software updated at all times. This helps protect the computer against the vulnerability of a system being outdated. A second measure that can be taken is to secure the network that the computer is connected to whether it’s at home or on an office network. This can be done by using lengthy and unguessable passwords for the Wi-Fi. Also, another way is using a Virtual Private Network to give an extra level of security in hiding that network.  

• Describe three ways that computers have made the world safer and less safe.

Most would agree that computers have had a huge impact on the safety of the world in both positive and negative ways. The positive impacts are much more than just in the field of information technology (IT). Computers have made the world safer through predicting the weather. These systems help meteorologists predict natural disasters prior to them actually occurring. This allows people to have enough time to react on how they want to handle the event of a natural disaster based on the severity of it. A second way the world is safer through computers is through the healthcare system. For example, computers can detect a patient’s health issues in the early stages and can provide abundant care for patients through a variety of health treatments. A third reason in how computers positively impact the safety of the world is through surveillance systems. These surveillance systems can detect criminal activities when presenting in front of a security camera. On the other hand, a negative impact computers have had on the world’s safety is cybercrime. The invention of the computer has created the opportunity for individuals to do criminal acts in the cyber realm. Another way the world is less safe is how computers have increased the chances of personal data being leaked. Lastly, computers have negatively impacted the world’s safety through people constantly depending on technology. Their dependence on technology can do more harm than good for society if overly reliant on it.