IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Many people put their personal information online (address, telephone number, and so on) for purposes such as signing up for social networks or online banking.
Is this a positive or negative development?
Sample Answer:
The internet has revolutionized the way society communicates and behaves. Today, it is not uncommon to come across individuals voluntarily sharing their personal information online for a variety of reasons. This essay will argue that although there are several advantages to providing personal data online, the risks associated with it should not be underestimated and this practice can be deemed as a negative development.
To begin with, the most obvious benefit of providing personal information online is that it makes certain activities much more convenient. For example, when signing up for an online banking system, providing one’s address, phone number and other details are usually a prerequisite for setting up an account. By providing this information, one can save time and effort in having to provide the same information over and over again each time he/she engages in a similar activity.
Moreover, having personal information online can make it easier for individuals to stay in contact with others. For instance, by signing up for a social networking website, one can make it easier for friends and family to get in touch with him/her. Furthermore, the information provided can also be used to make sure that one receives the most relevant and timely updates on topics of interest.
On the other hand, the risks associated with sharing personal information online should not be overlooked. One of the primary concerns is that personal data can easily be misused by hackers and other cyber criminals. With the right information, they can access other online accounts, such as bank accounts or credit cards, or even commit identity theft. In addition, some companies have been known to sell users’ personal information to third parties, which can lead to unwanted advertisements.
In conclusion, although providing personal information online can make certain activities more convenient, this practice should not be taken lightly due to the risks associated with it. Therefore, it can be seen as a negative development.