This key facts covers Key UK Legislation within Legal Issues for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Legal Issues in Impacts of Technology for GCSE Computer Science with 15 exam-style questions and 14 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 2 of 6 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 2 of 6
Practice
15 questions
Recall
14 flashcards
Key UK Legislation
1. Data Protection Act 2018 (inc. UK GDPR)
Purpose: Protects personal data and gives individuals control over their information.
- Data must be collected fairly and lawfully
- Data must be kept secure from unauthorized access
- Data must not be kept longer than necessary
- Data must be accurate and up to date
- Data must be used only for specified purposes
- Individuals have the right to be forgotten (data deleted)
2. Computer Misuse Act 1990
Purpose: Prevents computer crimes and unauthorized access to systems.
- Section 1: Unauthorized access to computer material (hacking) - up to 2 years prison
- Section 2: Unauthorized access with intent to commit further offences - up to 5 years
- Section 3: Unauthorized modification of computer material (viruses, deleting data) - up to 10 years
- Section 3A: Making, supplying, or obtaining tools for computer misuse - up to 2 years
3. Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
Purpose: Protects intellectual property and creative works.
- Illegal to copy software without a license
- Illegal to download music, films, books without permission
- Illegal to copy images and text from websites without permission
- Using pirated software is a criminal offence
- Protects creators' rights to profit from their work
4. Freedom of Information Act 2000
Purpose: Gives the public right to access information held by public authorities.
- Citizens can request information from government bodies
- Promotes transparency and accountability
- Some exemptions for national security and personal data
- Authorities must respond within 20 working days