Under the Computer Misuse Act 1990, which action is illegal?

Under the Computer Misuse Act 1990, which action is illegal?

• A. Access data without permission
• B. Access data with permission
• C. Use data for legitimate purposes
• D. Copy data you own

Answer: (A)

Unauthorized access to computer material is illegal under the Computer Misuse Act 1990. The Act makes it an offense to gain access to data on a computer without permission, even if you don’t do anything further with the data. Permission is what makes access lawful, so taking a look at someone else’s data without consent is the wrongdoing here. Accessing data with permission is allowed because you have the right to access it. Using data for legitimate purposes is also allowed when you’re authorized and acting appropriately. Copying data you own is generally fine, since you control that data, provided you’re acting within your rights and not breaching other laws or terms.

Unauthorized access to computer material is illegal under the Computer Misuse Act 1990. The Act makes it an offense to gain access to data on a computer without permission, even if you don’t do anything further with the data. Permission is what makes access lawful, so taking a look at someone else’s data without consent is the wrongdoing here.

Accessing data with permission is allowed because you have the right to access it. Using data for legitimate purposes is also allowed when you’re authorized and acting appropriately. Copying data you own is generally fine, since you control that data, provided you’re acting within your rights and not breaching other laws or terms.