Cybersecurity in government systems has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, questions about digital security and government responsibility have appeared in approximately 15% of tests, particularly in countries with high digital adoption rates.
Why governments should invest in digital infrastructure has become crucial as cyber threats continue to evolve. Let’s examine a recent IELTS task 2 question on this topic.
Government cybersecurity systems protecting digital infrastructure and sensitive data
Analysis of the Question
Some people believe that governments should invest more resources in protecting their digital systems from cyber attacks, while others think this money should be spent on other public services. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting viewpoints
- Analysis of government spending priorities
- A clear personal stance
- Relevant examples and supporting evidence
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
In today’s digital age, the debate over government spending priorities between cybersecurity and other public services has become increasingly significant. While both areas deserve attention, I strongly believe that investing in digital system protection should be a top priority.
Those who advocate for spending on traditional public services argue that immediate social needs should take precedence. They contend that tangible services like healthcare, education, and transportation directly impact citizens’ daily lives and well-being. Furthermore, in developing nations where basic infrastructure remains inadequate, allocating substantial resources to cyber defense might seem premature.
However, Cybersecurity threats and solutions demonstrate that protecting government digital infrastructure is paramount. A single successful cyber attack can paralyze essential services, compromise sensitive data, and result in massive financial losses. For instance, when healthcare systems are breached, patient records can be compromised, leading to both privacy violations and disruption of critical medical services. Similarly, attacks on financial systems can destabilize entire economies.
Moreover, importance of cybersecurity for businesses shows that robust government cyber defense creates a ripple effect of protection throughout society. Modern public services increasingly rely on digital infrastructure, making cybersecurity an integral part of service delivery rather than a separate consideration. From digital identity systems to online tax platforms, protecting these services ensures their continuous and reliable operation.
In my opinion, governments must prioritize cybersecurity investment while maintaining essential public services. This is not an either-or situation, but rather a recognition that in our interconnected world, digital security underpins the effective delivery of all other services. The cost of preventing cyber attacks is invariably lower than dealing with their aftermath.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people have different opinions about where governments should spend money. Some think cyber security is very important, while others want money spent on public services. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support spending on public services have good reasons. First, many citizens need better hospitals, schools, and roads. These things help people every day. Also, in poor countries, many people don’t have basic things like clean water or good schools. They think cyber security is not as important as these basic needs.
However, protecting computer systems is very important too. If hackers attack government computers, they can steal important information or stop services from working. For example, if hospital computers stop working, doctors cannot help patients properly. Also, if bank systems are attacked, people might lose their money.
Cybersecurity education for students is becoming more important because everything uses computers now. When governments protect their computer systems, they also protect people’s personal information and money. This makes citizens feel safe when they use government services online.
I think governments should spend money on both things. They need to protect computer systems and also provide good public services. Both are important for people’s lives today. If governments don’t protect their computers, they cannot provide good public services anyway.
Key Vocabulary
- Cybersecurity (n) /ˌsaɪbəsɪˈkjʊərəti/ – Protection of computer systems
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – Basic physical systems of a country
- Paramount (adj) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – More important than anything else
- Compromise (v) /ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/ – To put something at risk
- Ripple effect (n) /ˈrɪpl ɪˈfekt/ – Spreading series of consequences
- Robust (adj) /rəʊˈbʌst/ – Strong and unlikely to fail
- Paralyze (v) /ˈpærəlaɪz/ – To make something unable to function
- Aftermath (n) /ˈɑːftəmæθ/ – The consequences following an event
Conclusion
As cyber threats continue to evolve, questions about government cybersecurity will likely appear more frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- Digital privacy in government services
- Public spending on technology infrastructure
- Balance between security and accessibility in government systems
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
