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

Technology and computers have had a great impact on society as a whole. We are able to do so much more and explore topics in a few clicks of our mouse that once would’ve taken swimming through a library to find the answer to. Computers have not only made our world safer but have also made it a little riskier as well. In this blog I will discuss three ways that computers have made the world safer and less safe.

Computers allow us to store data and files digitally in a safer manner in comparison to how things were stored before technology was this advanced. Before computers, it was common for individuals to use things such as filing cabinets to store important documents. Computers have allowed us to safely store and backup documents and data that would not be affected by things such as natural disasters, human interference, etc. so long as we are using the cloud and all of our files/data is backed up properly. Computers have also assisted in logging criminals and finding trends in criminal occurrences that happen around the world, allowing law enforcement to direct their security personnel in a more efficient manner. Another way that computers have made the world safer is by introducing SCADA. SCADA is a system that controls critical infrastructures and helps monitor facilities remotely. SCADA helps provide real time feedback to help Improve the overall functionality of critical infrastructures. Without computers this would not be possible. Computers also allow us to encrypt our data to ensure that the information we are transferring is not transferred to the wrong individual.

However, just as much as computers have made our world a safer place to track crime, transmit data, and monitor critical infrastructures, it also has opened the door to things that could potentially harm the world as a whole. With most people reliant on their information being stored digitally, the world is at risk to data leaks which could lead to a loss of privacy. Information such as SSN, DOB, and home addresses could be leaked to criminals with mal intent. Cyber criminals could also see the reliance on computers as an opportunity to commit deviant acts in exchange for money. For example, should a cyber hacker, hack into a SCADA system for a water plant, they could potentially effect neighborhoods or cities. We have seen a similar act in 2021 when a group of hackers took over the oil system that was responsible for transporting fuel. Colonial Pipeline fell victim to a cyberattack and was forced to pay 5 million in ransom to the group of hackers in order to regain control of their systems. Another way that computers have made the world less safe is through other forms of cyber-crimes such as cyber-stalking. With social media on the rise, it is common to see individuals flaunt their money and assets. This could make them a target to cyber stalkers who are looking for a lucrative victim. It is important to use the internet and computers wisely, and to be cautious of the threats and vulnerabilities that come with it to not fall victim to crimes revolved around technology.