THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF COMPUTER ETHICS
The Ten
Commandments of Computer Ethics were created in 1992 by the Computer Ethics
Institute (CEI) as a means to create “a set of standards to guide and instruct
people in the ethical use of computers”.
The ten
commandments of computer ethics copied the style of the Ten Commandments from
the Bible and used the archaic “thou shalt” and “thou
shalt not” found in the King James Version.
The Ten
Commandments:
1. Thou
shalt not use a computer in ways that may harm people.
Explanation: This commandment says that it is
unethical to use a computer to harm another user like: corrupting other user’s
file or data, stealing someone’s personal information, writing program,
which on execution could lead to stealing, copying or gaining unauthorized
access to other user’s data.
2. Thou
shalt not interfere with other people’s computer work.
Explanation: Computer software can be used in ways
that disturb other users or disrupt their work. Viruses, for example, are program
meant to harm useful computer program or interfere with the normal
functioning of a computer. Therefore, it is unethical to design or use such
program.
3. Thou
shalt not snoop around in other people’s computer files.
Explanation: Obtaining data from another person’s
private files is nothing less than breaking into someone’s room. Therefore,
snooping around in another person’s files or reading someone else's personal
messages is the invasion of his or her privacy.
4. Thou
shalt not use a computer to steal.
Explanation: With the use of technology, stealing of
information is much easier. Stealing sensitive information or leaking
confidential information is as bad as robbery.
5. Thou
shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.
Explanation: False news or rumours can be spread
speedily through social networking sites (like Facebook, yahoo, twitter, etc.)
or emails. Being involved in the circulation of incorrect information is
unethical.
6. Thou
shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid.
Explanation: Refrain from copying software or buying
pirated copies. Pay for software unless it is free. Like any other artistic or
literary work, software is copyrighted. Therefore, obtaining illegal copies of
copyrighted software is unethical.
7. Thou
shalt not use other people’s computer resources without authorization or proper
compensation.
Explanation: Multi-user systems have user specific
passwords. Breaking into some other user’s password, thus intruding his or her
private space is unethical.
8. Thou
shalt not appropriate other people’s intellectual output.
Explanation: It is wrong to claim ownership on a work
which is the output of someone else’s intellect. Programs developed by a
software developer are his or her property. If he or she is working with an
organization, they are the organization’s property. Copying them and
propagating them in one’s own name is unethical.
9. Thou
shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or
the system you are designing.
Explanation: Looking at the social consequences that a
program can have, describes a broader perspective of looking at technology. A
computer software on release, reaches millions of people. Software like video
games and animations or educational software can have a social impact on their
users. Therefore, when working on animation films or designing video games, it
is the programmer’s responsibility to understand his or her target audience or
users and the effect it may have on them.
10. Thou
shalt always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect for
your fellow humans.
Explanation: The communication etiquette we follow
in the real world applies to communication over computers as well. While over
the internet, one should treat others with respect. Therefore, the use of
abusive languages, make false statements or pass irresponsible remarks about
others should not be stopped.
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