Question

Among using technology in USA to improve tracking of Covid-19.

What are some of the challenges associated with implemented the technology? How about he risks associated with using the technology? Cybersecurity issues? Do you think the benefits outweigh the risks/challenges? Can we as a country mitigate those risks?

Answer 1

Technology and Covid-19  tracking

The massive spread of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has prompted nations to try everything to control and contain it. Many countries in the world especially countries like South Korea and Singapore have performed exceptionally in this regard. Asian countries depend upon a range of technologies to counter the pandemic outbreak.CCTVs, Robots, and Drones, Smart imaging, Mobile Apps, Location tracking, etc. are some of the technological solutions that have been used in different nations in the fight against COVID-19.

The United States also making use of the facilities of technologies in the war against COVID-19. Technology companies are the front runners in this. Apple and Google already declared its strategy to convert cell phones into COVID-19 tracking machines that have the ability to alert the public if they are exposed to the virus. The smart thermometer maker Kinsa introduced a website that is helpful in tracking the unusual increase in fever or flu-like symptoms in the USA.

Challenges and risks associated with the implementation of technology in the tracking of Covid-19

People and experts have already raised alarm against the use of mobile apps for surveillance. Many people are argued that it will jeopardize the privacy rights of people. The biggest worry is that the surveillance in the name of public health may result in the misuse of private information once the COVID-19 is subsided. The app-based tracking and containment will not succeed if a major chunk of people reluctant to use it. Thus we can understand that the chance of data misuse is the biggest risk and unfavorable public response to app-based tracking is the biggest challenge in implementing technology in the tracking of Covid-19.

The fact is that even though these challenges are there it is very important that we use all weapons in the fight against the pandemic. It justifies the use of technology in controlling COVID-19 even if at the cost of privacy right. Also, authorities must make awareness among the public about the importance of technology in tracking in encountering a pandemic like COVID-19. The government must give an assurance to the public that their privacy rights will not be compromised or violated.

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