Page 90 - E1 Integrated Workbook STUDENT 2018

Chapter 6

Ethics and IT/IS

Ethical issues connected
with IT/IS

Data protection, Incorrect systems usage,
for example of customer for example downloading
information improper materials or
violating copyright laws

Technical trends have increased concerns about ethical issues, for example:

 advances in networking technology leading to invasions of privacy

 increased data storage capacity (for example using databases) allows
organisations to find out detailed information about individuals

 concerns regarding accuracy and reliability of information as reliance on IS
increases.

Examples of ethical threats include:

 Data protection – the UK Data Protection Act provides a framework to ensure
an individual’s information is handled properly, for example to ensure customer
information is not lost or stolen.

 Incorrect use of systems – most organisations have an acceptable user policy
for employees, for example regarding downloads and website usage.

78