Cybersecurity has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of business-related questions between 2020-2023. As organizations worldwide face growing digital threats, understanding this subject is crucial for IELTS candidates. Let’s examine a recent question that has appeared in actual IELTS tests.
The growing importance of cybersecurity measures in modern business operations
Question Analysis
Some people believe that businesses should be required by law to protect their computer systems and data from cyberattacks. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on government regulation of business cybersecurity
- Provide specific reasons and examples
- Consider implications for both businesses and society
- Structure arguments logically with appropriate examples
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
In today’s digital age, I strongly agree that legislation should mandate businesses to implement robust cybersecurity measures. This requirement is essential for protecting not only individual companies but also the broader economic ecosystem and consumer interests.
Firstly, mandatory cybersecurity regulations are crucial because businesses handle vast amounts of sensitive data. As highlighted in recent studies about the impact of cybersecurity threats on national security, when companies fall victim to cyber attacks, the consequences extend far beyond their immediate operations. Customer information, financial records, and intellectual property can be compromised, leading to significant economic losses and reputational damage.
Moreover, in our interconnected economy, the importance of cybersecurity for businesses cannot be overstated. A security breach in one company can create a domino effect, affecting partners, suppliers, and customers. For instance, the 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack demonstrated how a single breach could disrupt entire supply chains and critical infrastructure.
Furthermore, many businesses, particularly smaller ones, may not voluntarily invest in adequate cybersecurity measures due to cost concerns. Legal requirements would ensure a minimum standard of protection across all business sectors, creating a more resilient digital economy. This is particularly relevant given the growing importance of digital banking for businesses.
However, such legislation must be carefully crafted to avoid placing undue burden on businesses while ensuring effective protection. The requirements should be scalable based on company size and risk level, with clear guidelines and support mechanisms for implementation.
In conclusion, making cybersecurity protection mandatory through legislation is essential in our digital age. While this may require significant investment from businesses, the benefits of enhanced security and stability far outweigh the costs.
Business professionals implementing cybersecurity measures in corporate environment
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
I agree that businesses should be legally required to protect their computer systems from cyber attacks because this is very important in today’s digital world.
The main reason for this is that many companies keep important information about their customers. When hackers attack these companies, they can steal personal details and bank information. This is very dangerous for customers and can cause them to lose money. As studies about Cybersecurity in government systems show, protection is very necessary.
Also, businesses that don’t protect their computers can harm other companies. For example, if a small company gets hacked, the hackers might use this to attack bigger companies that work with them. This shows why we need laws about Regulate data privacy and cybersecurity.
Some people say that security systems are too expensive for small businesses. However, I think the government can help these companies by giving them money or training. This would make it easier for them to follow the law.
In conclusion, I believe making cybersecurity protection required by law is good for everyone. It helps protect both businesses and their customers from dangerous cyber attacks.
Key Vocabulary
- cybersecurity (n) /ˌsaɪbəsɪˈkjʊərəti/ – the state of being protected against criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data
- mandate (v) /ˈmændeɪt/ – to officially require something
- robust (adj) /rəʊˈbʌst/ – strong and unlikely to fail
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic systems and services needed for a country or organization
- resilient (adj) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to recover quickly from difficulties
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “This requirement is essential for protecting not only X but also Y” (Parallel structure)
- “While this may require X, the benefits of Y far outweigh the costs” (Contrast pattern)
- “As highlighted in recent studies, when X occurs, Y follows” (Cause-effect structure)
Feel free to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback!
