Class Notes on Society, Law, and Ethics in the Digital World
1. Introduction
Overview:
The digital world is not just about computers and the internet; it affects our daily lives, our society, and even the laws that govern us. Just as a school playground has rules to maintain discipline, the online world also has certain ethical guidelines, safety measures, and legal aspects that we need to follow to ensure a positive and secure experience.
2. Digital Footprints
Definition:
A digital footprint is the trail of data that you leave behind when you use the internet. Every time you post a photo, send a message, or even search for something on Google, you are leaving behind traces of your online activity.
Example:
Think about walking on wet sand at the beach. Each step you take leaves a footprint, and someone can track where you have been. Similarly, your online actions leave a permanent mark, which others can see or retrieve later.
Why It Matters:
Just like how your reputation in school is built over time based on your behavior, your digital footprint builds your online reputation. Anything you post online can stay there forever, affecting future opportunities like college admissions or job applications. Being mindful of what you share helps maintain a positive online identity.
3. Digital Society and Netizen
Net Etiquettes:
Just as we follow good manners in face-to-face conversations, we must also follow certain etiquette when interacting online. This is known as net etiquette or netiquette.
Examples:
- Avoid using ALL CAPS in messages as it feels like shouting.
- Do not send spam messages or forward unnecessary chain messages.
- Always credit others when using their content.
- Be respectful in comments and discussions.
Communication Etiquettes:
Online communication should be clear, polite, and considerate, just like how we speak to teachers and friends in school. Using proper language, avoiding slang in formal messages, and respecting other people’s opinions are key to good communication.
Social Media Etiquettes:
Social media is like a virtual extension of our personality. Just as we follow school rules in the classroom and behave properly outside of school, we should also follow good etiquette on social media.
- Think before posting anything publicly.
- Avoid sharing fake news or false information.
- Do not share personal details such as home address or phone numbers.
4. Data Protection
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR):
Intellectual property rights protect original works, ideas, and creations from being copied or misused by others. There are three main types:
- Copyright – Protects books, music, videos, and artwork from being copied without permission.
- Patent – Protects new inventions from being stolen or replicated by others.
- Trademark – Protects brand names, logos, and slogans.
Violation of IPR:
- Plagiarism: Copying and using someone else’s work without credit.
- Copyright Infringement: Using songs, movies, or images without permission.
- Trademark Infringement: Using a company’s name or logo without authorization.
Open Source Software and Licensing:
Some software creators allow people to use, modify, and distribute their programs for free. This is called open source software. Examples include:
- Creative Commons (CC) – A license that allows sharing with certain conditions.
- General Public License (GPL) – Allows users to modify and share software freely.
- Apache License – Used by developers to create open-source software.
Real-Life Example: Copying a friend’s homework and submitting it as your own is like plagiarism. Similarly, copying content from the internet without permission is an IPR violation.
5. Cyber Crime
Definition:
Cybercrime refers to illegal activities conducted online using computers or the internet.
Types of Cyber Crimes:
- Hacking: Unauthorized access to someone’s computer or accounts.
- Eavesdropping: Secretly listening to private conversations or data transfer.
- Phishing: Fake emails or websites trying to steal personal details like passwords.
- Ransomware: A type of virus that locks a user’s computer and demands money.
- Cyberbullying: Sending hurtful messages or threats to someone online.
Real-Life Example:
Imagine if someone sneaks into your locker, steals your notebook, and copies all your notes—that’s like hacking. Similarly, tricking someone into revealing their personal details online is called phishing.
6. Cyber Safety
Definition:
Cyber safety refers to protecting yourself and your data from online threats and dangers.
Key Points:
- Safe Browsing: Avoid visiting suspicious websites.
- Identity Protection: Never share passwords, addresses, or phone numbers online.
- Confidentiality: Keep personal and sensitive information private.
Real-Life Example:
Just as you don’t talk to strangers about personal things in real life, you shouldn’t share private details with unknown people online.
7. Malware
Definition:
Malware (malicious software) is a program designed to harm your computer or steal your data.
Types of Malware:
- Virus: Spreads and corrupts files.
- Trojan: Disguises itself as a useful program but harms the computer.
- Adware: Displays unwanted ads and slows down the computer.
Real-Life Example:
Imagine someone secretly putting glue on your chair so you get stuck—malware is like that, making your computer slow and causing problems.
8. E-Waste Management
Definition:
E-waste refers to old and discarded electronic devices. Proper disposal is necessary to prevent environmental pollution.
Why It’s Important:
- Electronic devices contain harmful materials that can damage the environment.
- Recycling reduces waste and allows reuse of materials.
Real-Life Example:
Just as we put plastic bottles in a recycling bin, we should recycle old phones and computers properly.
9. Information Technology Act (IT Act)
Overview:
The IT Act of 2000 is a law that governs online activities and protects users from cybercrime.
Key Points:
- It defines cybercrimes and their punishments.
- It ensures secure online transactions and protects digital rights.
Real-Life Example:
Similar to how school rules prevent bullying, the IT Act prevents cybercrimes and ensures online safety.
10. Technology and Society
Gender and Disability Issues:
- Gender Equality: Ensuring technology is accessible and fair to all genders.
- Disability Inclusion: Making computers and websites accessible to people with disabilities.
Real-Life Example:
Just like schools provide ramps for students with wheelchairs, websites should have features that help visually impaired people read content.
11. Cyber Crime vs. Cyber Safety:
- Cyber Crime: Actions that break the law online (e.g., hacking, phishing, cyberbullying).
- Cyber Safety: Practices to protect yourself from cybercrimes (e.g., using strong passwords, avoiding unknown links).
Key Difference:
Cybercrime is about harmful actions, while cyber safety is about protecting yourself from them.
Analogy:
A school bully (cybercrime) causes harm, but school security guards (cyber safety) protect students from harm.