In terms of safety, computers have had a huge beneficial and harmful impact on the world. Here are three ways that computers have improved global safety and three ways that they have decreased it:

More secure:

Improved Interaction and Reaction to Emergencies:

The way emergency services interact, and handle crises has been completely transformed by computers and digital communication technologies. Through a variety of digital channels, emergency responders can rapidly gather and disseminate information about crises, plan rescue operations, and give the public real-time updates.

Better Medical Technology and Healthcare:

Medical research, diagnosis, and treatment have advanced significantly thanks to computers, improving patient safety and healthcare results. Electronic health records (EHRs) provide medical practitioners with the ability to promptly access patient data, monitor medical histories, and make well-informed decisions regarding patient treatment.

Increased Monitoring and Safety:

Computers have made it easier to develop security and surveillance systems, which has helped to stop and prevent terrorism, criminal activity, and illegal entry into private spaces. Computer algorithms and software are used by access control systems, biometric scanners, and surveillance cameras to track and analyze activity, spot dangers, and react to security breaches.

Less Safe:

Identity Theft and Cybercrime:

As a result of the widespread use of computers and digital technologies, cybercrime—which includes phishing, malware, hacking, and identity theft—has increased. Cybercriminals take advantage of weaknesses in computer systems and networks to steal intellectual property, financial information, and personal information. This results in financial losses and jeopardies people’s security and privacy.

Self-Driving Weapons and Combat:

Regarding their application in combat and military operations, the development of autonomous weaponry systems driven by artificial intelligence and computer algorithms presents serious moral and security issues. Lethal-capable autonomous drones, robots, and unmanned vehicles have the ability to cause unintentional deaths, escalate hostilities, and take over human control of the battlefield.

Privacy and Surveillance Issues:

In certain situations, surveillance technologies have increased security, but they also give rise to worries about invasions of privacy, widespread monitoring, and excessive government surveillance. People’s civil liberties and right to privacy can be undermined by the widespread use of digital tracking technologies, facial recognition software, and surveillance cameras. This can cause people to fear constant observation and loss of identity in public places.