DEVELOPMENT

A Level Computer Science

Stages of Compilation

CMA

The computer misuse act came into effect in 1990. It was designed to restrict unauthorised and malicious use of computer systems. The act makes it illegal to carry out any of the following:

  1. Unauthorised access to computer material
  2. Unauthorised access with intent to commit or facilitate a crime
  3. Unauthorised modification of computer material
  4. Making, supplying or obtaining anything which can be used in computer misuse offences

The act works in tiers, so each act has more severe consequences than the last. For example,
unauthorised modification of material has worse consequences than basic unauthorised access to data.
Before 1990, there was no protection against data theft or modification, meaning there was nothing that could be done
to punish cyber criminals. This act helped to fight it by giving the means to prosecute those who comitted such acts.

Click the image above to learn more.

James McNicholas 2017