Legislations

Data Protection Act - set up to protect the privacy of individuals from organisations. Personal data - any data that relates to a living, identifiable individual.
Exemptions - National Security, Crime and Taxation and domestic purposes.
main aspects
1) personal data shall be processede fairly and lawfully
2) P.D shall be obtained only for one or more specified purposes.
3) P.D. shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive in relation to its intended purpose.
4) P.D. shall be accurate and kept up to date.
5) P.D. processed for any purpose shall not be kept for longer than necessary.
6) P.D. shall be processed in accordance with the rights if the data subject
7) Appropriate measure shall be taken to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and against accidental loss or damage.
8) personal data shall not be transferred outside of the EU unless that country ensures adequate level of protection.

Data Subject
to access data stored about them.
to prevent processing that is likely to cause damage or distress
to prevent processing for the purpose of direct marketing.
to request a manual decision if they object to an automated one.
to be compensated if damage or distress is suffered by contravention of the act.
to rectify, block or erase incorrect data.



Computer Misuse Act (1990)
protects data by companies from Hackers
four main provisions.
1) unauthorised access to computer material
2) unauthorised access with intent to commit or facilitate further offences
3) unauthorised acts with intent to impair operation of a computer
4) making, supplying or obtaining articles for use in computer misuse offences.
Problems include - accidental intrude and proof of responsibility.


Copyright, Designs and Patents Act (1988)
this act makes it illegal to steal or create unauthorised copies of software. also covers manuals, books, cds and music.
Protects the interests of people who have created, written, invented something.


Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000)
nicknamed the "snoopers" charter introduced to address the concerns about the use and misuse of communication interception techniques.
the Act allows lawful interception.
the Act makes it a criminal offence to monitor communications without lawful authority.
Examples
in the interest of national security.
to prevent or detect crime.
to investigate or detect unauthorised use of telecommunication systems.


Freedom of Information Act (2000)
applies to all public authorities (including government, health service, schools and police)
allows anyone to make a request for information they think the authority might hold. (although a request does not mean you will recieve the information!)
 does not override any other Act (you wouldnt be able to access data protected under the data protection act)


Health and Safety at Work (1974)
this act aims to protect workers from harm in the workplace. it ensures that the employers provide a safe working environment, well maintained machinery and safety equipment if required.


Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992
a very specific regulation relating to the use of computers in the work place.
covers areas including correct lighting, adjustable chair to provide correct posture, regular tests and eye tests (paid for by employer)