GEC 0113 Ethics in IT Practices Kam-Fai Wong Dept of SEEM, CUHK kfwong@se.cuhk.edu.hk

Ethics “analysis of decisions and actions with respect to their appropriateness in a given social context” Dilemmas: impair or enhance the well-being of individuals or groups Ethical / legal

Ethical Dilemmas in IT For software, is it acceptable to: buy once, install twice? you install and use by others? make copies then distribute or even sell? make available on-line for download? trading on the Web?

Ethical Dilemmas Employers read staff’s email Employers monitor websites visited by staff Company resources are only for co. purpose Staff report misuse of co. resources Disclaimer right to eliminate responsibility Respect IP, e.g. modifying/copying code Privacy of data

IT Ethical Issues Code of Ethics: rules for expected actions Intellectual Information Rights protect intangible properties in IT Accountability responsibility of (non-)actions Data/info Privacy right to be left alone

HK Data Privacy Principles Purpose and manner of collection Accuracy and duration of retention Use Security Information availability Access (see Privacy Commissioner’s Office, HKSAR, http://www.pco.org.hk)

Code of Ethics Don’t use a compute to harm other people. Don’t interfere others’ computer work. Don’t look at others’ computer files. Don’t not use a computer to steal.

Code of Ethics (Cont.) Don’t use a computer to lie. Don’t copy or use software without paying for it. Don’t use others’computer resources without permission. Don’t use others’ work.

Code of Ethics (Cont.) Think about the social impact of the program you creates. Always use a computer in a way that shows respect and consideration for other people.

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