1. Introduction to Computer Ethics
Learning Outcomes:
Define and explain why the study of computer ethics is important.
List and explain the three major issues of concern in the study of computer ethics.
Explain the IEEE-CS/ACM codes of ethics.
What is Computer Ethics?
Ethical Choices and Dilemmas
Major Issues in Computer Ethics
IEEE-CS/ACM Ethics Code
Professional Responsibilities

2. What is Computer Ethics?
Ethics: The principles of right and wrong accepted by individuals or society.
Computer ethics is concerned with standards of conduct applicable to computer users.
Computer ethics is used to define the standards which govern the use of computers.
For instance, we should use computers in a way that:
promotes learning and scholarship
fosters trust
discourages causing damage and loss to others
promotes general societal good

3. Why Study Computer Ethics?
To remind us to behave responsibly.
To teach us to avoid computer abuse and catastrophes.
To help us address new ethical issues created by computer technology.
To create a coherent body of laws needed to govern the use of computers and the Internet.
To make us fully equipped to enter the new world of online society.

4. Ethical Choices Right from wrong 1. Stealing 2. Lying 3. Cheating
Right from right
1. Hiding facts -not asked
2. Pirating unlicenced software- promote learning
3. Cheating - to avoid dismissal

5. Example: Sample Ethical Dilemma
Consider the following situation:
You are working on a web site for a client and have nearly finished. Your boss asks you to send it to the client now. “Don't wait to test it, just send it to them as it is, otherwise they are likely to cancel the contract, we can fix it later if there are problems.”
What would you do?
Follow your boss or your ethical and moral conscience?
The rules of Islam should be our guiding principles in this and other dilemmas.

6. Issues in Computer Ethics
Common issues of concern in computer ethics are:
1. Intellectual property rights (ownership)
2. Privacy
3. Censorship
"Ownership" implies that a property owner has certain rights.
The ownership of an intellectual property can prevent others from using it.
Protection to owners of intellectual property:
1. Copyrights
2. Patents
3. Trademarks

7. Issues in Computer Ethics: Privacy
Do you have a secret?
We want our secrets to be what they are-- secret!
How would you feel, if someone told your employer that you were dismissed from your previous job?
What if they got this information from an not meant for them?
Yes, that would be unfair violation of your privacy!

8. Issues in Computer Ethics: Censorship
Have you wondered why obscene material is allowed on the WWW?
Anything offensive to the mind should not be allowed on the Internet.
Censorship refers to the steps taken by responsible persons to regulate Internet content.
Censorship decisions are guided by a society's Value System.
Censored material is usually banned or access to it blocked.

9. IEEE-CS/ACM Code of Ethics
Act in PUBLIC interest.
Act in the best interest of CLIENT and EMPLOYER.
Ensure PRODUCTS meet professional standards.
Maintain integrity and independence in professional JUDGEMENT.
Promote an ethical approach to product MANAGEMENT.
Advance the integrity and reputation of the PROFESSION.
Be fair and supportive of COLLEAGUES.
SELF - participate in lifelong learning and practice.

10. Professional Responsibilities
Our task as professionals is to provide decent services to:
The employer
Fellow human beings
The society at large
We should constantly think about:
The sort of systems we should develop
The sort of systems we should NOT develop
How best to utilise our professional skills