Computer Ethics and Cyber Law

Chapter-10 Computer Ethics and Cyber Law

Computer ethics is a set of moral principles and values that govern the creation, management, and use of computers, networks, and software. It defines what is considered right or wrong behavior when interacting with digital technology and data. The Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics were created in 1992 by the Computer Ethics Institute (CEI) as a fundamental set of moral guidelines for using computer technology responsibly. 1. Do not use a computer to harm other people. 2. Do not interfere with other people's computer work. 3. Do not snoop around in other people's computer files. 4. Do not use a computer to steal. 5. Do not use a computer to bear false witness. 6. Do not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid. 7. Do not use other people's computer resources without authorization or proper compensation. 8. Do not appropriate other people's intellectual output. 9. Always think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or the system you are designing. 10. Always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect for your fellow humans.

Computer Virus

A Computer Virus is a harmful computer program written by humans to damage, steal, or slow down data inside a computer system.

Example of Computer Virus:

ILOVEYOU, MyDoom, WannaCry, and Stuxnet etc

Full Form of VIRUS:

Vital Information Resources Under Seize

Common Symptoms of an Infected Computer:

i. Runs very slowly. ii. Shows sudden pop-up messages iii. Files or folders disappear automatically. iv. Computer restarts on its own.

Who Created the First Computer Virus and Why?

The First Virus: Creeper (1971) Creator: Bob Thomas

Why it was created:

It was built as an experimental test to see if a program could automatically move between different computers. It was not meant to destroy data ; it simply printed the message: "I'm the creeper, catch me if you can!"

The First PC Virus: Brain (1986)

Creators: Two brothers from Pakistan, Basit Farooq Alvi and Amjad Farooq Alvi. Why it was created: To protect their medical software from illegal copying (piracy). It unexpectedly spread globally via floppy disks.

How to Prevent Computer Viruses

Use Genuine Antivirus: Install and regularly update reliable security software. - Scan External Drives: Always scan USB drives before opening files. - Avoid Unknown Links: Do not click on suspicious links or download random attachments from emails. - Keep Software Updated: Regularly update the computer's Operating System (e.g., Windows Updates) to fix security weaknesses. - Backup Data: Store important files on external drives or cloud storage like Google Drive.

Cyber Law

Cyber law is a set of laws that deal with crimes and legal issues related to computers and the internet. In Nepal, cyber law supports the constitution by protecting citizens’ digital rights, privacy, and online security. In Nepal, the Electronic Transaction Act (ETA), 2063 addresses issues related to cybercrime and helps in drafting and implementing laws against it. It is considered the first cyber law in Nepal.

Excersise-10 Computer Ethics and Cyber Law

Q1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. Who created the 'Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics' in 1992? a) Computer Security Institute (CSI) b) Computer Ethics Institute (CEI) c) International Telecommunication Union (ITU) d) World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) 2. What is the full form of VIRUS in computer terminology? a) Vital Information Resources Under Seize b) Very Important Resource Under System c) Virtual Information System Under Security d) Vital Network Resource Unit System 3. Which of the following was created by Bob Thomas in 1971 as an experimental test? a) Brain b) ILOVEYOU c) Creeper d) WannaCry 4. Why was the 'Brain' virus created by Basit and Amjad Farooq Alvi in 1986? a) To demand ransom money b) To steal user passwords c) To protect medical software from illegal copying d) To shut down global internet networks 5. Which law serves as the primary and first cyber law in Nepal? a) Information Technology Act, 2075 b) Electronic Transaction Act (ETA), 2063 c) Cyber Crime Prevention Act, 2058 d) Digital Security Act, 2070

Q2. Short Answer Questions

1. Define Computer Ethics. 2. State any two guidelines from the Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics. 3. What is a computer virus? Give two examples. 4. List any two common symptoms of a computer virus infection. 5. Define Cyber Law and state its primary objective in Nepal.

Q3. Long Answer Questions

1. Discuss the history of the first experimental virus and the first PC virus, explaining the reason why each was created. 2. Explain four effective measures that can be taken to protect a computer system from virus infections. 3. Explain the importance of the Electronic Transaction Act (ETA) 2063 in Nepal regarding cybercrime and digital rights. 4. Why is it necessary to follow moral principles when using technology? Explain with reference to computer ethics and social responsibility.