Areas of Computer Ethics

What is Computer Ethics?


The moral guidelines that govern the use of computers, mobile devices and information systems.

Areas of Computer Ethics

• Information accuracy
• Green computing
• Codes of conduct
• Intellectual property 
• Information privacy

1. Information Accuracy :

• One of the concern because many users access information maintained by other people or companies, such as on the Internet.
• Do not assume all the information on the Web is correct.
• Users should evaluate the value of a Web page before relying on its content.
• Be aware that the organization providing access to the information may not be the creator of the information.

2. Green Computing :

• Green computing is the environmentally responsible and eco-friendly use of computers and their resources. In broader terms, it is also defined as the study of designing, manufacturing/engineering, using and disposing of computing devices in a way that reduces their environmental impact.
• Involves reducing the electricity and environmental waste while using a computer.
• Society has become aware of this waste and is taking measures to combat it.
• Some of the actions that has been taken:
• Using energy- efficient devices that require little power when   they are not in use.
• Buy computers with low power consumption processors and power supplies
• When possible, use outside air to cool the data center.
• Average computer users can employ the following general tactics to make their computing usage more green:
• Use the hibernate or sleep mode when away from a computer for extended periods.
• Use flat-screen or LCD monitors, instead of conventional cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors.
• Buy energy efficient notebook computers, instead of desktop computers.
• Activate the power management features for controlling energy consumption.
• Turn off computers at the end of each day.
• Refill printer cartridges, rather than buying new ones.

3. Codes of Conduct :

• Written guideline that helps determine whether a specific action is ethical/unethical or allowed/not allowed.

4. Intellectual Property :

• Unique and original works such as ideas, inventions, literary and artistic works, processes, names and logos.
• Or, refers to creations of the mind: inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce.
• Intellectual property rights are the rights to which creators are entitled for their work.

5. Information Privacy :

• Definition : The right of individuals and companies to deny or restrict the collection, use, and dissemination of information about them.
• The privacy of personal information and usually relates to personal data stored on computer systems.
• The need to maintain information privacy is applicable to collected personal information such as medical records, financial data, criminal records, political records, business related information or website data.
• Information privacy is also known as data privacy.
• Today, huge databases store their data online.
• Much of the data is personal and confidential and should be accessible only to authorize users. 
• Many individuals and organizations, however, question whether this data really is private. 
• That is, some companies and individuals collect and use this information without your authorization.
• Web sites often collect data about you, so that they can customize advertisements and send you personalized e-mail messages.
• Some employers monitor your computer usage and e-mail messages