Computer Misuse Act (1990)

Computer Misuse Act (1990)

1. why was it needed

   • before 1990 there was no legislation in place to tackle the problems caused by hacking
   • although everyone knew it was wrong and should be against the law there was nothing anyone could do
   • the problem grew so it became apparent hackers needed to be prosecuted

2. Offences that allowed action to be taken

   • Unauthorised access to computer material
   • Unauthorised access with intent to facilitate a crime
   • Unauthorised modification of computer material

3. After the act it was illegal to

   • gain unauthorised access to computer materials
   • gain unauthorised access to computer materials with the intent to commit
   • carry out unauthorised modification of computer materials
   • gain authorised access to computer systems to facilitate denial of services

4. It protects against

   • hackers attempting to access a computer system
   • people who spread viruses if they intend to modify the content of the computer system