UPSC Prelims 2021 · CSAT

Question 13: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “Computers increasingly deal not just with…” — Passage – 3 · as printed by UPSC

Which one of the following statements best reflects the most critical inference that can be made from the passage given above ?

aComputers are not completely safe.

bCompanies producing the software do not take cyber security seriously.

cStringent data security laws are needed.

dThe present trend of communication technologies will affect our lives in future.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).

The passage says computers are now built into cars, aeroplanes, medical devices and many everyday objects, that there is little reason to think these will be more reliable than ordinary computers, and that attackers have already taken remote control of connected vehicles and pacemakers. Its central inference is that computers are not completely safe. It does not blame software companies, ask for laws, or predict the future of communication technology. Remember: for a 'most critical inference' question, choose the claim the evidence directly supports, not a remedy or a blame.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Right: hackers have already taken over connected cars and pacemakers, so computers are not fully safe.
(b) The passage never says software makers ignore security; it blames no one.
(c) A call for stringent laws is a remedy the passage never proposes.
(d) The passage concerns security risks of connected devices, not how communication trends will shape life.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2021, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.