Computer Misuse Act 1990

Question 1

Name the types of computer misuse.

Answer 1

• Hacking.
• Data misuse and unauthorised transfer or copying.
• Copying and distribution of copyrighted software, music and film.
• Email and chat room abuses.
• Pornography.
• Identity and financial abuses.
• Viruses.

Question 2

Describe hacking.

Answer 2

Accessing a computer system without authorisation. Usually by using hacking tools to cause harm.

Question 3

Describe data misuse and unauthorised transfer or copying.

Answer 3

The copying and illegal transfer of data using online computers and large storage devices.

Data such as personal data, company research and written work, such as novels and textbooks, cannot be copied without the copyright holder’s permission.

Question 4

Describe copying and distributing copyrighted software, music and film.

Answer 4

Copying movies with computer equipment and distributing it on the internet without the copyright holder’s permission.

Question 5

Describe email and chat room abuses.

Answer 5

Using an alternate identity for the purpose of impersonation and deception.

Question 6

Describe pornography.

Answer 6

Storing material of an indecent nature in a way that is classified as illegal, or which shows illegal acts.

Question 7

Describe identity and financial abuses.

Answer 7

The misuse of stolen credit cards/identities to conduct fraud.

Can include deceptions such as printing counterfeit money.

Question 8

Describe viruses.

Answer 8

Programs designed to cause nuisance or damage to computers or their files.