Computer Misuse Act

Start with a mind map

The mind map Computer Misuse Act (1990) begins with why the Act was needed and refers to hacking. Use it as a starting point for the topic, noting the reason it gives for the legislation. Then look at The Computer Misuse Act 1990, which introduces unauthorized access to computers, access with further intent and modification of computer material.

As you move between the maps, write down the terms each one uses. Comparing them can help you organize your notes around the different kinds of activity described.

Explore related examples

The mind map Computer Misuse Act 1990 lists unauthorized access, access with intent to commit or facilitate a crime, and unauthorized modification. E-safety and the law also discusses the Computer Misuse Act and unauthorized access to computer material.

Read these alongside the opening maps. Look for the way each resource describes access and what makes it unauthorized. You can use the headings in a map to organize a short set of notes before moving on to questions.

Use flashcards after the maps

A flashcard deck on this page asks about situations such as an unsuccessful login attempt and someone reading information over another person's shoulder. Try answering the questions using the ideas you found in the maps, then return to the maps to check the terms you used.

Another flashcard deck asks about penalties, reasons hackers try to break in and ways an organization might prevent a break-in. There are no quizzes listed on this page, so the flashcards offer a question-based way to study alongside the maps.

Place the topic in the unit

Computer Misuse Act is one section of Computer Law, Ethics and Cybercrime in Cybersecurity. After studying the resources here, use your notes to keep track of the terms and examples you want to carry into the rest of the unit. Choose a flashcard deck and try a question.