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Positive or negative TechSocietyCrime Essay #52
Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Many people put their personal information online (address, telephone number, and so on) for purposes such as signing up for social networks or online banking.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Use the plan, then compare with Band 9.
250 words · 4 paragraphs
Introduction

Paraphrases the topic about sharing personal details online. States that although there are benefits, the drawbacks are more significant (opinion).

The advent of the digital age has seen an increasing number of individuals willingly divulge their personal information online for various purposes such as social networking or online banking. While this development carries certain advantages, it is my contention that the disadvantages are more pronounced.

Body 1 · View 1

Discusses the positive side (benefits). Points include: ease and speed of registration (e.g., using auto-fill), and smoother communication (e.g., sharing contact info on social networks).

On the one hand, the convenience offered by this trend is undeniable. By storing personal information online, individuals can expedite the process of signing up for various services, thereby saving valuable time. For instance, auto-fill features enabled by such data storage can significantly reduce the time taken to complete online forms. Furthermore, this practice facilitates seamless communication. Sharing contact details on social networks can enhance connectivity, allowing individuals to maintain relationships regardless of geographical boundaries.

Body 2 · View 2

Discusses the negative side (drawbacks). Points include: risk to privacy and misuse by dishonest parties (identity theft, data breaches, e.g., Equifax 2017), and creating a false sense of safety leading to poor cybersecurity habits.

However, the potential risks associated with this practice are substantial. The primary concern is the threat to privacy. Once personal information is online, it becomes susceptible to misuse by unscrupulous entities, leading to issues such as identity theft. A case in point is the Equifax data breach in 2017, where the personal details of millions of individuals were compromised. Additionally, this trend may engender a false sense of security. Many individuals, lulled into complacency by the convenience of online transactions, may overlook the necessity for stringent cybersecurity measures, thereby making themselves vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Conclusion

Summarizes the main points (ease/communication vs. privacy threats/carelessness). Restates the opinion that it is more of a problem.

In conclusion, while the convenience and enhanced communication offered by sharing personal information online are notable benefits, the risks to privacy and the potential for complacency regarding cybersecurity make this development more of a liability.

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Next question: The personal information of many individuals is held by large internet companies and organizations. Do you think the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?