IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1511 - Whether technology development decreases crime
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that technological development decreases crime in society while others believe it actually encourages crime.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Opinion: technological development decreases crime in society]
The impact of technological development on crime is a topic of hot debate. While some argue that advancements in technology reduce crime by improving security measures and law enforcement capabilities, others believe that technology, in fact, provides new opportunities for criminal activity. In my opinion, although technology has contributed to certain types of crime, its overall effect has been to reduce criminal activity by enhancing detection and prevention mechanisms.
Those who argue that technology encourages crime often point to the rise of cybercrime, such as hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. The widespread use of digital platforms and the internet has provided criminals with new avenues to exploit vulnerable individuals and systems. For example, phishing schemes and ransomware attacks have become increasingly common as people conduct more of their financial and personal transactions online. Additionally, some argue that criminals can now use technology to evade law enforcement, making it harder to track their activities.
However, I strongly believe that technology has had a more positive influence on reducing crime. Advancements such as surveillance cameras, biometric identification, and artificial intelligence have significantly improved the ability of law enforcement agencies to monitor and prevent criminal behaviour. For instance, CCTV cameras have been instrumental in deterring street crimes and assisting in solving cases by providing critical evidence. Moreover, data analytics and advanced forensic tools have enhanced investigative techniques, making it easier to track down criminals and bring them to justice. These technological improvements have created a safer society by reducing crime rates in many urban areas.
In conclusion, while technology has opened up new forms of criminal activity, particularly in the digital realm, its overall effect on society has been to reduce crime.
Model Answer 2: [Opinion: technological development actually increases crime in society]
No doubt technological progress has profoundly shaped modern society, but their impact on crime remains a subject of considerable debate. While some argue that technological advancement has significantly reduced criminal activities through surveillance and law enforcement tools, others contend that it has, paradoxically, facilitated more sophisticated crimes. This essay will discuss both perspectives before asserting that technological development, despite its benefits, has ultimately encouraged crime.
On the one hand, proponents of technology argue that it acts as a powerful deterrent to crime. Advanced surveillance systems, such as CCTV cameras, facial recognition, and biometric authentication, have made it increasingly difficult for criminals to operate undetected. Additionally, digital forensic tools enable law enforcement agencies to track cyber criminals, decode encrypted messages, and prevent potential attacks. For instance, police forces worldwide have successfully used artificial intelligence and data analytics to predict and prevent criminal behaviour, significantly lowering crime rates in some urban areas.
However, others argue that technology has inadvertently enabled criminals to commit more complex offences with greater anonymity. The rise of cybercrime, including hacking, identity theft, and financial fraud, demonstrates how technology can be exploited for illicit purposes. For example, sophisticated ransomware attacks have targeted major corporations and government institutions, causing severe economic and security disruptions. Furthermore, encrypted messaging applications and the dark web provide criminals with secure platforms to engage in illegal activities such as drug trafficking and human exploitation, making detection and prosecution significantly more challenging.
In my view, while technology has enhanced security measures, it has also empowered criminals with new tools to evade detection and execute more sophisticated crimes. The increasing reliance on digital platforms, coupled with vulnerabilities in cybersecurity, suggests that technological advancement has ultimately encouraged criminal activities rather than eliminated them.
Idea Generation for This IELTS Essay:
Essay Type: Discussion Essay
Main questions of this IELTS Essay:
Does technological development decrease crime, or does it encourage criminal activities?
Arguments in favour of technology reducing crime:
Advanced surveillance and crime prevention:
Modern security systems, including CCTV cameras, facial recognition, and AI-powered analytics, help law enforcement agencies monitor and prevent crimes before they occur. For example, smart surveillance has significantly reduced street crimes in cities like London and Tokyo.
Improved forensic technology aids criminal investigations:
DNA analysis, digital forensics, and AI-assisted investigations help police solve crimes more efficiently. Cold cases that remained unsolved for decades have been reopened and resolved due to advancements in forensic science.
Cybersecurity measures prevent financial crimes:
Banks and corporations use encryption, fraud detection software, and blockchain technology to secure financial transactions and prevent cyber fraud. For instance, two-factor authentication has made online banking much safer.
Public awareness and safety applications:
Mobile apps and online platforms allow individuals to report suspicious activities, access emergency services quickly, and receive real-time crime alerts. Apps like "Citizen" and "Find My iPhone" have helped prevent theft and other crimes.
Arguments in favour of technology encouraging crime:
Rise of cybercrime and identity theft:
The internet has enabled criminals to commit cybercrimes such as hacking, phishing, and identity theft. For example, ransomware attacks on multinational corporations have resulted in millions of dollars in losses.
Dark web facilitates illegal activities:
Anonymity on the dark web allows criminals to engage in illegal transactions, such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, and human exploitation, without fear of detection.
Technology is used for financial fraud:
Cryptocurrency has provided a new way for criminals to launder money and evade financial regulations. Fraudulent online investment schemes have also surged, deceiving unsuspecting investors.
Artificial intelligence and automation help criminals:
AI-powered bots can be used to spread misinformation, manipulate elections, and conduct large-scale scams. Deepfake technology, for example, has been exploited to create convincing fake videos for blackmail and fraud.
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