HNC Computing - Professionalism & Ethics

Laws: Computer Misuse Act

Proper title: Computer Misuse Act 1990

What it covers:

• Criminalises unauthorised access to computer systems (hacking)

• Covers unauthorised modification (e.g. malware, viruses)

• Includes offences like DDoS attacks and creating hacking tools

Application to computing:

• Core cybercrime law for IT professionals

• Ethical hacking/penetration testing must have permission

• Organisations must secure systems to prevent breaches

Laws: Copyright, Designs and Patent Act

Proper title: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988

What it covers:

• Protects intellectual property (software, code, digital media)

• Gives creators rights over copying, distribution, and modification

Application to computing:

• Software piracy is illegal

• Developers own code unless contracted otherwise

• Impacts open-source licensing and digital content use

Equality Act

Proper title: Equality Act 2010

What it covers:

• Protects individuals from discrimination (e.g. race, gender, disability)

• Requires fair treatment in employment and services

Application to computing:

• IT workplaces must avoid discrimination

• Software and websites should be inclusive

• Links to accessibility requirements (e.g. UI design)

GDPR

Proper title: UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) + Data Protection Act 2018

What it covers:

• Governs how personal data is collected, stored, and processed

• Gives individuals rights (access, deletion, correction)

• Requires lawful, fair, and transparent data use

Application to computing:

• Affects databases, websites, apps, cloud systems

• Requires encryption, security, and data minimisation

• Data breaches must be reported

Health & Safety at Work Act

Proper title: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

What it covers:

• Ensures safety of employees in the workplace

Application to computing:

• Covers workstation ergonomics (RSI, screen use)

• Safe server rooms, electrical equipment

• Risk assessments for IT environments

Freedom of Information Act

Proper title: Freedom of Information Act 2000

What it covers:

• Gives public access to information held by public bodies

Application to computing:

• Public sector IT systems must store retrievable data

• Data management systems must support information requests

• Requires proper data organisation and security

Disability Discrimination Act

Proper title: Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (largely replaced by Equality Act 2010)

What it covers:

• Prevented discrimination against disabled people

Application to computing:

• Basis for accessibility standards (now under Equality Act)

• Influences screen readers, captions, accessible UI design

Consumer Protection Act

Proper title: Consumer Protection Act 1987

What it covers:

• Protects consumers from unsafe or defective products

Application to computing:

• Hardware/software must be safe and reliable

• Faulty software causing damage could lead to liability

• Applies to apps, devices, and digital products

WEEE

Proper title: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations 2013

What it covers:

• Governs disposal and recycling of electronic waste

Application to computing:

• IT companies must recycle old hardware properly

• Impacts disposal of PCs, servers, peripherals

• Encourages environmentally responsible computing

Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act

Proper title: Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA)

What it covers:

• Regulates surveillance, interception of communications

Application to computing:

• Impacts network monitoring and data interception

• Employers must follow rules when monitoring employees

• Relevant to cybersecurity and law enforcement

Telecommunications Regulations Act 2000

Proper title: Telecommunications (Lawful Business Practice) (Interception of Communications) Regulations 2000

What it covers:

• Allows limited interception of communications for business purposes

Application to computing:

• Employers can monitor emails/internet use (within limits)

• Requires transparency and legitimate purpose

• Important for IT network administration and security