Recently, a school of thought believes that the percentage of crime may decrease thanks to the innovation of technology. However, some hold the opposite opinion that this process will create an effective backup for crimes. This essay will discuss both perspectives before concluding why I agree with the former.
On the one hand, it is undeniable that advancements in technology can be a productive tool for cyber-crimes, who conduct illegal things via the Internet. Indeed, many transactions, nowadays, are being done through online platforms, which create numerous opportunities for cyber-crime to hack one’s account and send all money in this account to his one without using the victim’s devices. Added to that is the trend of criminals impersonating police to extort money from residents, which are also becoming more and more popular, especially in Southeast Asia. According to the Vietnamese government, in 2024, this country recorded more than 250,000 calls of residents who reported that they were cheated out of money by cyber-crimes. The target individuals chosen are the elderly or women who are not well- equipped with technological knowledge.
On the other hand, high-tech advancements have helped the authorities to handle and prevent illicit activities faster. In many countries, they utilize a number of camera systems, which are installed in the road, the pavements or anywhere else for controlling and monitoring residents’ activities. As a result, the supervisors can detect who is committing crimes to treat straightforwardly. This technology may be easily seen in China with more than 1,5 billion cameras which will make this country become safer. Moreover, DNA analysis technology or positioning technology also play an indispensable part for police to solve difficult cases and control released criminals. For example, In the USA, people who are released from prison will need to be forced to wear a GPS tracking device. Thanks to this, many criminals have abandoned their recidivism plan as they could be easily sent back to jail.
In conclusion, despite some aforementioned disadvantages about cyber-crimes, I strongly believe that, in reality, it can help avert criminal activities.