Computer Misuse Act

In response to crimes been committed on computers the Computer Misuse Act was created

Introduced to prevent unauthorised access to computer systems.

Three main offences:

• Unauthorised access to computer material - Gaining access to a computer system without permission, for example: logging into a users account without there consent. 
• Unauthorised access with the intent to commit further offences - Once gaining access, intending to commit further crimes, for example: stealing data to commit Identity Theft.
• Unauthorised modification of computer material - Deleting files, changing files, installing malware, etc.

Committing any of the offences can lead to fines and or time in prison.