Computers & the law
Until 1990 there were no laws covering computers and the Internet - why do you think this is?
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Part 1
Unauthorised access to digital/computer material. This means a person asking a computer to perform any function with the intent of accessing anything on the computer for which they do not have permission, and for which they know they do not have permission. For example, logging on using someone else's password (without their permission) is illegal under this section of the act. Part 2
Unauthorised access to digital/computer material with intent to commit or facilitate the commission of further offences. This means a person gaining access to a computer without permission in order to commit another crime or to enable someone else to commit a crime. For example, logging on to someone's online bank account in order to transfer money to your account is illegal under this section. Part 3
Unauthorised acts with intent to impair the operation of a computer. This means a person intentionally slowing down, stopping or altering the operation of any computer or program, or intentionally preventing access to any data or program on any computer. This includes creating or supplying materials that could be used to carry out this offence. For example, creating a virus EVEN IF you don't send it is a crime under this section. |