Computer Misuse

By:Alex Meadows Michael Read

How can you misuse a computer?

• Accessing data stored electronically• Copying software without permission• Corrupting data• Email and Chat room Abuse• Pornography• Grooming• Identity and financial abuses• Viruses

Hacking

• Defined as breaking into your IT system without consent.

• It is still an offence if no damage is done and no files are deleted

• Precautions such as Firewalls, Anti-Virus and secure passwords should be taken against hacking

Computer Misuse Act (1990)

• The act defines three specific offences:– Unauthorised access to computer material– Unauthorised access to a computer with intent to

commit or facilitate the commission of a serious crime

– Unauthorised modification of computer material

Computer Misuse Punishments

• Unauthorised access to computer material including copying software stored on the computer:– 6 months in prison or a £5,000 fine

• Unauthorised access with intent to commit further offences i.e. spreading viruses– 5 years in prison or an unlimited fine

• Changing computer information

Cyber-x type activities

• Taking malicious forms of offline communications online…– Cyber bullying– Cyber terrorism– Cyber stalker

…in the headlines today!

• A man incited riots on Facebook in Wales. The man was sentenced under the malicious communications act for four years.

• A disgruntled IT supplier hacked a estate agent website and replaced pictures of houses with pornography. The person was convicted under the computer misuse act.

How does computer misuse affect…

• Extra security to prevent unauthorised access to confidential data

• As an ISP, BT have to block access to illegal file sharing websites

• OFCOM regulations to tackle equivalence issues

• The different BT Group businesses have to operate from different building areas

How does computer misuse affect…

• Extra security to prevent unauthorised access to confidential data

• Payments are dealt with by a 3rd Party to fully comply with the Data Protection Act

• Strict selling guidelines

• Extra security to prevent unauthorised access to confidential data

• Obliged to alert users of ‘hoax’ websites• Filter inappropriate content• Prime arena for cyber-x activities

How does computer misuse affect…

How the computer misuse act impacts the way in which an organisations products and services are offered

• General points to note– Increased internet security– Employee awareness programmes– Data Protection systems

Any Questions?