Legal, Ethical, Cultural and Environmental Impacts of Digital Technology
This page provides a comprehensive overview of the various impacts of digital technology across different domains. The content covers essential legislation and key considerations for responsible technology use.
Definition: The Computer Misuse Act 1990 establishes three main offenses: unauthorized access to computer material, unauthorized access with intent to commit further crimes, and unauthorized modification of computer material.
Example: Under the Data Protection Act 2018, a company collecting customer email addresses must clearly state how this data will be used and ensure it's stored securely.
Highlight: The maximum punishment for breaking the Computer Misuse Act can result in a £5,000 fine or several years' imprisonment.
Vocabulary:
- E-waste: Electronic waste from discarded devices
- Open Source: Software that's freely available and modifiable
- Proprietary: Software owned and controlled by a specific company
The environmental impact section discusses both positive aspects like increased efficiency in manufacturing and negative consequences such as e-waste production. Cultural issues address the digital divide, automation's impact on employment, and technology accessibility. Privacy concerns highlight the challenges of maintaining personal information security in the digital age.
Quote: "Data must be collected and used fairly" - A fundamental principle of the Data Protection Act 2018.
The page also contrasts Open Source and Proprietary software licenses, detailing their respective advantages and disadvantages. Privacy issues are extensively covered, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining personal information security in the digital age and the importance of proper privacy settings usage.
