Chapter 8: Digital Society and Ethics

Chapter 8: Digital Society and Ethics

8.1 Digital Society and Computer Ethics

• Digital Society: Refers to the societal changes brought about by the widespread use of digital technology, impacting communication, education, commerce, and social interactions. Key characteristics include increased access to information, global connectivity, and the transformation of traditional social structures.

• Computer Ethics: Involves the moral principles and standards that govern the use of computers and information technology. Key areas of focus include:

  • Privacy: Respecting individuals' rights to control their personal information.
  • Intellectual Property: Protecting the rights of creators and inventors.
  • Digital Divide: Addressing inequalities in access to technology and the internet.

8.2 Concept of Information Security

• Information Security: The practice of protecting information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. It encompasses:

  • Confidentiality: Ensuring that sensitive information is accessed only by authorized individuals.
  • Integrity: Maintaining the accuracy and completeness of information.
  • Availability: Ensuring that information is accessible when needed.

• Common practices include data encryption, secure passwords, firewalls, and regular security audits.

8.3 Concept of Cybercrime

• Cybercrime: Criminal activities conducted via the internet or involving computer systems. Types of cybercrime include:

  • Hacking: Unauthorized access to computer systems.
  • Identity Theft: Stealing personal information to impersonate someone.
  • Phishing: Fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy entity.
  • Online Fraud: Scams conducted through e-commerce platforms.

• Cybercrime poses significant risks to individuals and organizations, leading to financial losses and privacy violations.

8.4 Malicious Software and Spam

• Malicious Software (Malware): Software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise computer systems. Types of malware include:

  • Viruses: Self-replicating programs that attach to legitimate files.
  • Worms: Standalone malware that spreads across networks.
  • Trojan Horses: Disguised as legitimate software but contain harmful code.
  • Ransomware: Encrypts files and demands payment for decryption.

• Spam: Unsolicited and often irrelevant messages sent over the internet, primarily via email. Spam can also include deceptive advertisements and phishing attempts. It clutters inboxes and may carry malicious attachments or links.

8.5 Protection from Cybercrime

To protect against cybercrime, individuals and organizations can adopt the following measures:

• Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords and change them regularly.
• Install Antivirus Software: Use reputable antivirus programs to detect and remove malware.
• Regular Software Updates: Keep all software up-to-date to patch vulnerabilities.
• Educate Users: Training individuals on recognizing phishing attempts and safe online practices.
• Use Firewalls: Implement network firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic.

8.6 Intellectual Property Rights

• Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Legal rights that protect creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images. Types of IPR include:
  • Copyright: Protects original works of authorship.
  • Patents: Protects inventions and discoveries.
  • Trademarks: Protects symbols, names, and slogans used to identify goods or services.
• IPR encourages innovation and creativity by providing creators with exclusive rights to their work.

8.7 Concept of Digital Signature

• Digital Signature: A cryptographic technique used to validate the authenticity and integrity of a digital message or document. It provides:

  • Authentication: Verifies the identity of the sender.
  • Integrity: Ensures that the message has not been altered.
  • Non-repudiation: Prevents the sender from denying the sending of the message.

• Digital signatures are widely used in e-commerce, legal documents, and secure communications.

8.8 Concept of Cyber Law in Nepal

• Cyber Law: A set of legal regulations that govern internet-related activities, protecting individuals and organizations from cybercrime and ensuring legal compliance in the digital environment.

• In Nepal, the Electronic Transaction Act (ETA) of 2008 and the Cyber Crime Act of 2018 provide the legal framework for cyber laws, addressing issues like data protection, digital signatures, and electronic transactions.

8.9 ICT Policy in Nepal

• ICT Policy: A strategic framework aimed at promoting the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for national development and enhancing the digital landscape in Nepal. Key objectives include:
  • Digital Inclusion: Ensuring equitable access to technology and the internet for all citizens.
  • Capacity Building: Enhancing digital literacy and skills among the population.
  • Infrastructure Development: Improving ICT infrastructure for better connectivity and services.
  • E-Governance: Promoting the use of ICT in government services to improve efficiency and transparency.