Meaning of Ethics

The word Ethics comes from the Greek word “Ethikos” which means custom, habit, or character.

Ethics refers to the moral principles, standards, or rules that guide the behaviour of human beings. It teaches us what is right or wrong, good or bad, acceptable or unacceptable in our daily activities.

Example

1. It is ethical to tell the truth.


2. It is unethical to cheat in an examination.


3. It is ethical to respect your teacher and classmates.

Ethics helps people to live peacefully and respectfully in society.

Meaning of Computer Ethics

When we apply ethics to how we use computers and technology, it becomes Computer Ethics.

Definition:
Computer ethics is the study of moral principles that guide people on how to use computers, software, the Internet, and digital information correctly, safely, and responsibly.

It helps us to understand what is right and wrong in the use of computers and information technology.

Computer ethics is very important in our modern world because technology is now part of our everyday life. It helps us to:

1. Protect people’s privacy: It helps us to respect other people’s personal information such as passwords, emails, and documents.


2. Prevent computer crimes: It helps us to avoid harmful activities like hacking, stealing data, or spreading viruses.


3. Protect intellectual property: It helps us to give credit to the owners of ideas, music, software, and books before using them.


4. Promote honesty and fairness: It helps us to be truthful and fair when using computers or communicating online.


5. Encourage responsible use: It helps us to use the Internet and digital devices for positive purposes such as learning, research, and communication.


6. Build trust in the digital world: It helps us to create an online environment where people can trust one another.

These are actions that go against the rules of computer ethics:

1. Hacking: Gaining access to someone else’s computer, email, or data without permission. Example: Breaking into another student’s account to change results.


2. Software Piracy: Copying or installing paid software without buying a license. Example: Using a cracked version of Microsoft Office.


3. Plagiarism: Copying another person’s work, project, or assignment and claiming it as your own.


4. Spreading Computer Viruses: Creating or sharing programs that destroy or damage computer files.


5. Cyberbullying: Using the Internet or social media to insult, embarrass, or threaten others.


6. Identity Theft: Pretending to be another person online to steal information or money.


7. Invasion of Privacy: Reading someone’s private messages, files, or photos without permission.


8. Online Scamming and Fraud: Sending false messages or emails to cheat people or collect their money.


9. Illegal Downloading: Downloading movies, music, or games from the Internet without the owner’s consent.


10. Spreading False Information (Fake News): Sharing wrong information on social media that can mislead or harm others.

The Computer Ethics Institute created ten simple rules to guide computer users. They are called the Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics:

1. Do not use a computer to harm other people.


2. Do not interfere with other people’s computer work.


3. Do not snoop around in other people’s computer files.


4. Do not use a computer to steal.


5. Do not use a computer to tell lies or bear false witness.


6. Do not copy or use software without paying for it.


7. Do not use another person’s computer resources without permission.


8. Do not take credit for someone else’s work.


9. Always consider the social consequences of the programs you create or use.


10. Use computers in ways that show respect and care for other human beings.

These rules serve as a moral compass to guide every computer user.

To use computers responsibly means to use them with care, respect, and honesty.

Here are good habits every computer user should practice:

A. Responsible Use in the Computer Laboratory

1. Do not eat or drink near the computers.


2. Keep the computer room clean and dust-free.


3. Do not touch wires, cables, or electrical parts unnecessarily.


4. Do not insert unknown flash drives or compact discs into the computer.


5. Always shut down the computer properly after use.


6. Report any faults or damage to the teacher or lab attendant.


7. Sit properly and maintain good posture while using the computer.


8. Do not remove or change system settings.


9. Always handle the mouse, keyboard, and monitor gently.


10. Avoid playing games during study time unless permitted by the teacher.

1. Do not share your password or personal data with strangers.


2. Do not post or download harmful or immoral materials.


3. Always use reliable websites for research and learning.


4. Respect others when chatting or commenting online.


5. Do not open suspicious links or emails (to avoid scams and viruses).


6. Avoid gossiping or spreading rumours on social media.


7. Always verify information before sharing it.


8. Remember that what you post online can remain there permanently.

1. Protect expensive computer equipment from damage.


2. Maintain a clean and safe environment.


3. Prevent accidents like electric shock or tripping over cables.


4. Ensure that all students have equal access to computers.


5. Encourage discipline and responsibility.

In Nigeria, the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, and Related Matters) Act 2015 protects individuals and organizations against computer misuse.

Offences under the law include:

1. Hacking into computer systems.


2. Internet fraud activities.


3. Identity theft.


4. Spreading viruses or harmful programs.


5. Unauthorized access to data or networks.

Punishment: Offenders can face heavy fines or imprisonment, depending on the seriousness of the crime.

This law encourages everyone to use computers and the Internet responsibly.

1. Loss of trust: People stop trusting technology or online services.


2. Financial loss: Victims of fraud or hacking lose money.


3. Reputation damage: False information can destroy someone’s image.


4. Legal punishment: Offenders can be arrested or jailed.


5. Spread of fear: People become afraid to use the Internet.


6. Destruction of data: Important documents or records may be deleted or stolen.

Summary

1. Ethics are moral rules that help people behave properly.


2. Computer Ethics means applying those moral rules to how we use computers, Internet, and technology.


3. Unethical acts include hacking, piracy, plagiarism, fraud, cyberbullying, and invasion of privacy.


4. Responsible use means handling computers carefully, using the Internet wisely, and respecting others online.


5. Nigeria has laws called the Cybercrimes Act 2015 to punish computer misuse.


6. Everyone must practise good computer ethics to make the digital world safe, honest, and peaceful.