The Data Protection Act By Ian Hughes

Data should not be kept longer than is necessary for the specified purpose. Data processing should meet the legal rights of the data subjects. Data holders should protect the data against loss, theft or corruption. Data should not be transferred abroad, except to certain other European countries.

The law entitles data subjects to see the personal data about them that’s held by an organisation.

The Computer Misuse Act prevents illegal access to files

The Three Offences Unauthorised access to computer material (e.g. Hacking). This includes viewing parts of a network you’re not permitted to see, and the illegal copying of programs – software policy. Gaining unauthorised access to a computer to carry out serious crimes like fraud and blackmail. Unauthorised changing of computer files including planting viruses and deleting files.

Computer Use Can Cause Three Main Problems Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a general term for aches, pains and muscle or tendon damage resulting from overuse of a keyboard or a mouse. Some people call it Upper Limb Disorder (ULD). Spending too long in front of a VDU can cause eye strain and headaches. The glare from the screen and poor- quality images on some old monitors can make it hard for the eyes to focus properly. Circulation, fitness and back problems might result from sitting all day in front of a computer rather than walking around. This is more of a long term health problem.

There Are Three Main Solutions Though Take regular breaks from computer work. Looking away from the screen, walking around exercising your fingers and hands can also help to reduce the health risks. Use the correct equipment Arrange the equipment properly. Adjust the chair and VDU to find the most comfortable position to work.

The Copyright Design and Patents Act controls illegal copying This Law was introduced in 1989, and makes it illegal to copy a file without permission from the owner or copyright earlier

Three ways the law is often broken Using software without the proper licence Downloading text or images from the internet and using them without the owners permission Copying a computer program from work to your house