Legislation in Computer Science (OCR GCSE Computer Science): Revision Notes

Legislation in Computer Science

There are several key pieces of legislation relevant to computer science that regulate how data is used, protect intellectual property, and prevent illegal activity. Understanding these laws helps ensure responsible and legal use of technology.

Legislation

The Data Protection Act 2018

• Purpose: This law regulates how personal data is collected, stored, and processed.
• What it allows/prohibits:
  • Data must be used fairly, lawfully, and transparently.
  • Individuals have the right to access the data held about them.
  • Personal data must be kept secure and not kept for longer than necessary.
• Impact: Organisations must ensure they comply with the 7 principles of data protection, ensuring data is secure and handled responsibly.

Computer Misuse Act 1990

• Purpose: This law aims to prevent unauthorised access to computer systems and networks.
• What it allows/prohibits:
  • Unauthorised access to computer systems, such as hacking, is illegal.
  • It is also illegal to access systems with the intent to commit further crimes, such as fraud.
  • Unauthorised modification of computer material (e.g., deleting or altering files) is prohibited.
• Impact: Helps prevent cybercrime by setting legal boundaries for accessing and using computer systems.

Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988

• Purpose: Protects intellectual property, including software, images, music, and literature.
• What it allows/prohibits:
  • Copying, modifying, or distributing copyrighted works without permission is illegal.
  • Protects creators' rights, ensuring they control how their work is used and distributed.
• Impact: Ensures that creators, such as software developers, can profit from and control the use of their work.

Software Licenses

Software licenses define how software can be used, shared, and modified. There are two primary types: Open Source and Proprietary.

Open Source Software

Purpose: Open source software provides access to the source code, allowing users to modify and share the software.

Key Features:

• License-free: Users can download, modify, and distribute the software without paying for licenses.

• Source code is available, enabling collaboration and improvement by other developers. Advantages

  • Encourages innovation and collaboration.
  • Free to use and customise.

Disadvantages

• Limited official support, as there is often no dedicated company behind it.
• Updates may be irregular, relying on community contributions.

Proprietary Software

Purpose: Proprietary software does not allow access to the source code, and it is typically sold as compiled software that cannot be modified.

Key Features:

• Requires a purchased license for use.

• Source code is hidden, preventing modification. Advantages:

  • Often comes with dedicated support and regular updates.

  • Extensively tested for bugs and security. Disadvantages:

  • Can be expensive to purchase.

  • May limit customisation or flexibility for users.

Recommending a License for a Given Scenario

• Open Source is ideal for developers or organisations that want to encourage collaboration, improve the software through community contributions, and provide access to others for free.
• Proprietary Software is suitable when the software needs to generate income through sales, protect intellectual property, and offer professional support to users.