There is no doubt that the impact computers have had on the overall safety of society over the last four decades is undeniable. That impact goes both ways. Computers have both made the world signifyingly safer and less safe.

One way computers have made the world safer is the ease of communication. Computers making communication faster and more accessible has made emergency response more effective and efficient. Faster communication has also improved security on both a national and local scale. National agencies and local security organizations are able to prevent and respond to security events faster. Those agencies can share critical information and coordinate responses. Another way that computers have made a positive impact is through surveillance. The topic of surveillance can be controversial. Some people believe that surveillance has become far too invasive while others believe it is necessary for security. Regardless, surveillance provides a method to monitor public spaces and critical infrastructure.

Computers have also had a negative impacts on the world’s safety. Most relevant to cybersecurity is cybercrime. Hackers have developed the capability to steal or refuse access to banking information, health information, and organizational data. Hackers can use this information to inflict harm on individuals, companies and nations alike.