Task Description: Use the Internet to research how information technology has changed our society in the last few years. Look for key facts and statistics, and link them with ITGS social and ethical considerations on pages 4 to 5. Create a digital presentation that demonstrates these facts and the ITGS key terms for social impacts. Use any IT tools you want: perhaps a digital video camera, an online animation creator, or a presentation package.
Solution:
Information technology has transformed the way we live, communicate, and interact with the world around us. Our society is constantly adapting to these advancements, which impact nearly every sector.
For instance, in the banking industry, databases have replaced manual record-keeping systems, making data management more efficient and accessible. Similarly, the internet has revolutionized communication, enabling instant connectivity through social media platforms. The number of social media users has surged significantly over the years, as illustrated in the upcoming diagram.
Increasing Use of Social Media
Based on this diagram, we can observe the rising popularity of social media platforms. Facebook remains the most widely used social media app, with its user base continuing to grow steadily.
The increasing use of social media has contributed to globalization and cultural diversity, breaking down barriers between people from different parts of the world. These platforms allow individuals to share their experiences, express their opinions, and spread news from their local communities to a global audience.
However, social media also has its downsides. One major concern is the spread of misinformation, as false news can quickly go viral and mislead users. This misuse of social media highlights the need for critical thinking and fact-checking when consuming online content.
Improved Data Security
Information technology has significantly enhanced data security for organizations across various sectors. Businesses now store critical data—such as employee records, product inventories, and customer information—using advanced database systems instead of traditional manual storage methods.
Databases provide an efficient and structured approach to data management while incorporating robust security measures. One key aspect of this is authentication mechanisms, which help restrict access to authorized users only.
For example, organizations implement username and password-based authentication, ensuring that only verified individuals can access sensitive data. Additionally, modern security measures such as encryption, multi-factor authentication, and access control policies further strengthen data protection, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or cyber threats.
Internet
The use of the internet has been increasing rapidly, transforming the way people perform everyday tasks. From online shopping on platforms like Amazon to streaming movies on services such as Netflix, the internet has become an integral part of daily life.
In the year 2000, only 52% of the adult population in the United States used the internet. Today, that number has risen to 93%. This dramatic growth has enabled businesses to expand their reach by establishing an online presence, allowing them to sell products and services digitally.
The increasing use of the internet also poses significant risks to user privacy. Cybercriminals continuously develop advanced techniques to steal sensitive data, compromising personal and financial information. These hackers may misuse user credentials for illegal activities, leading to severe security breaches.
To mitigate such risks, organizations implement strict security policies.
Websites and online platforms require users to accept their terms and conditions before accessing services. These policies outline measures to prevent unauthorized access and address legal and ethical concerns related to data privacy and cybersecurity.
Predictions
Information technology has enabled accurate forecasting of future events, helping humans prevent or mitigate potential disasters. Unlike the human mind, which has limitations in analyzing vast amounts of data, machines equipped with advanced algorithms can make precise predictions based on patterns and trends.
Machine learning algorithms train systems using large datasets, allowing them to recognize patterns and make data-driven predictions. This capability is being widely used in various fields, including weather forecasting, financial market analysis, and healthcare diagnostics.
As technology advances, the reliance on machine-driven predictions continues to grow, ensuring that data is utilized efficiently for better decision-making and proactive problem-solving.
Time Saving and Efficient Work
The use of machines has significantly increased efficiency, allowing tasks to be completed much faster than before. Unlike humans, machines can process large amounts of data and perform complex calculations in seconds, making them invaluable in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.
For example, computers are widely used for high-speed data processing, calculations, and automation, reducing human effort and errors. However, while automation improves productivity, it also raises concerns about job displacement. Many tasks that were once performed by humans are now handled by robots and AI-driven systems, leading to a shift in the job market.
The challenge for society is to adapt to these changes by developing new skills and exploring job opportunities that complement technological advancements.
Storage
Data storage has always been a major challenge for organizations. Over time, various storage media have been developed, but traditional hardware-based storage solutions often lacked reliability and scalability.
With advancements in IT, cloud storage has emerged as a more efficient and flexible solution. Unlike physical storage devices, cloud storage allows organizations to store and manage large amounts of data with ease. Additionally, storage capacity can be expanded as needed without the limitations of physical hardware.
However, cloud storage also comes with security risks. Since data is stored online, hackers may attempt to gain unauthorized access, making cybersecurity measures essential for protecting sensitive information. Organizations must implement strong encryption, authentication mechanisms, and access controls to ensure data security in the cloud.
Money Transfer and Online Shopping
Transferring money used to be a major challenge, but advancements in IT have made it fast and convenient. Services like PayPal enable instant money transfers across the globe, allowing people to send and receive funds within minutes, regardless of location.
E-commerce platforms have also revolutionized shopping by providing customers with the ability to purchase products online. However, online transactions require strong data integrity measures to ensure security. Transactions can fail due to various reasons, making it essential to implement secure payment gateways and fraud prevention mechanisms to maintain accuracy and reliability.
Availability of Data
Information technology has enabled organizations to make data easily accessible to users at any time. With the development of reliable applications, users can now access information seamlessly without interruptions.
A key factor in ensuring smooth user experience is application reliability. A well-designed application has a minimal probability of failure, reducing downtime and improving customer satisfaction. However, maintaining application uptime remains a significant challenge, as unexpected failures can lead to financial losses and a decline in user trust.
AI Surveillance Technology
Artificial intelligence has revolutionized employee monitoring, making it easier for companies to track performance and maintain productivity. With a large workforce, manual supervision becomes challenging, but AI-powered surveillance systems help organizations assess employees efficiently.
These systems aid in decision-making by providing comprehensive employee records, allowing companies to make fair and data-driven promotion decisions. Additionally, they help enforce company policies by identifying employees who violate regulations. However, AI surveillance also raises ethical concerns related to privacy and workplace autonomy, as excessive monitoring may create a culture of distrust.
Harm to Intellectual Property
Intellectual property, including software, ideas, and written content, is increasingly at risk due to advancements in information technology. While copyright and trademark laws exist to protect these assets, digital tools and the internet have made it easier for individuals to copy, distribute, and misuse someone else’s work without permission.
Unauthorized sharing, software piracy, and plagiarism are growing concerns in the digital era. Despite legal protections, enforcing intellectual property rights remains a challenge, highlighting the need for stronger security measures and ethical considerations in IT.
Conclusion
Information technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, offering numerous benefits and making tasks more efficient. As IT continues to evolve, society will also adapt, potentially leading to advancements like flying cars and increased automation with robots in industries.
However, responsible use of technology is essential. Organizations must implement proper security measures, such as maintaining data backups in multiple locations, to safeguard against cyber threats like ransomware attacks. By using IT wisely, we can maximize its benefits while minimizing risks.
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