It is true that major technology companies and organisations nowadays store massive amounts of private information belonging to individuals. This essay will discuss both merits and drawbacks of this trend, ultimately arguing that the risks of data privacy and security far outweigh the benefits.
On the one hand, the benefits of collecting personal data are substantial. The primary justification is the personalization and the convenience. Algorithms select contents, music and goods suiting users’ tastes and interests. Moreover, systems remember frequent routes and search engines provide necessary information, such as breaking news or past locations. These comforts create a feeling that technology understands individuals perfectly, anticipating their needs before they even notice them. Another benefit is security. Many banks and websites use data in order to detect suspicious activity and prevent scams. For example, when logging into a banking app, the system scans users’ face. If a scammer tries to use users’ photo, the algorithm instantly blocks access. As a result, this increases overall safety and security.
On the other hand, there are critical reasons why people should not trust their data entirely. First of all there is a risk of data breaches. Cybercriminals are increasingly hacking the databases of large companies, such as Google and Microsoft, leaking the numbers and private data of innocent people online. Consequently, individuals should shift from relying on corporate security to actively managing their own digital defense. Not only is hacking the main issue, but also companies use targeted advertising to manipulate their clients. For instance, during the election, organisations can threaten people by leaking their information in social media, prompting them to vote for companies’ candidates. This negatively affects the mental health of individuals as they experience a large amount of stress.
In conclusion, while tech companies provide ease of use and personalized services, I believe that the disadvantages of data collection, namely cyber threats and political manipulation, far outweigh the advantages.