The Data Protection ActThe Data Protection Act controls how your personal information is used by organisations, businesses or the government. Everyone responsible for using data has to follow strict rules called ‘data protection principles’. They must make sure the information is:

• used fairly and lawfully• used for limited, specifically stated purposes• used in a way that is adequate, relevant and not excessive• accurate• kept for no longer than is absolutely necessary• handled according to people’s data protection rights• kept safe and secure• not transferred outside the UK without adequate protection

The Computer Misuse ActBased on the ELC's recommendations, a Private Member's Bill was introduced by Conservative MP Michael Colvin. The bill, supported by the government, came into effect in 1990. Sections 1-3 of the Act introduced three criminal offences:• unauthorised access to computer material, punishable by 6

months' imprisonment or a fine "not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale" (currently £5000);

• unauthorised access with intent to commit or facilitate commission of further offences, punishable by 6 months/maximum fine on summary conviction or 5 years/fine on indictment;

• unauthorised modification of computer material, subject to the same sentences as section 2 offences.

Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988

• Copyright gives the creators of some types of media rights to control how they're used and distributed. Music, books, video and software can all be covered by copyright law.

• Copyright law• Limitations imposed by copyright• When you buy software, for example, copyright law forbids

you from:• giving a copy to a friend • making a copy and then selling it • using the software on a network (unless the licence allows it) • renting the software without the permission of the copyright

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