Learners Handbook - Flipbook - Page 14
Computer Misuse Policy
All access of computers and connected systems is governed by the Computer Misuse Act 1990. This act has created three criminal offences covering
the usage of computers:
1. Unauthorised access to computer material
It is illegal to access a computing system unless authorised to do so and as
such it makes the activity of 8hacking9 a crime. It does not matter whether the
hacker is remote, working from a distance over the remote area networks, or
local, where persons such as staff or students who may have limited authorisation to use the computers knowingly exceed that authority. The hacking
need not be directed at a computer, programme or data. For example, it is
unlawful without proper authority:
•
To alter, delete, copy or move a programme or data, or simply to output a programme or data; or
•
To lay a trap to obtain a password
2. Unauthorised access to a computer system with intent to commit or
facilitate the commission of a further offence.
This covers the situation where unauthorised access is gained with intent to
commit a further offence. For example, a person may gain unauthorised
access to computer material in order to commit theft by redirecting funds
from someone else9s bank account.
3. Unauthorised modification of computer material
This offence includes the deliberate deletion or corruption of programmes or
data. It also includes the introduction of viruses etc., where these result in the
modification or destruction of data.
Please note that OET will take very seriously any attempts at 8hacking9 internal/external systems. Any such actions will be reported to the appropriate
authorities immediately.
Page 14
