Computer Misuse Act 1990

Computer Misuse Act 1990

1. The computer misuse act protects personally data held by organisations from unauthorised access and modification

2. unauthorised access to computer material

   • we probably all have committed this crime
     • it may be considered the least seriously offense
       • accessing someone’s files or social media without permission
         • sentence in prison could be 6 months
           • large fine

3. unauthorised access with intent to commit crime or break the law

   • Considered a very serious offence
     • Attempting to log on as someone else with the intention to break the law
       • For example,logging on someone else’s ebay account to defraud a customer
         • a prison sentence to 5 years
           • large fine

4. unauthorised modifications of computer materials

   • changing files
     • deletion of files
       • introduction of viruses
         • sentences up to 5 years
           • very large fine

5. making,supplying or obtaining materials that could be used in computer misuse offences

   • creation of viruses
     • supplying viruses to others
       • Acquiring viruses from others for use
         • prison sentence up to 5 years
           • unlimited fine