# data[].attributes.headline
Video explaining the importance of these commandments

# data[].attributes.subject
Video explaining the importance of these commandments

# data[].attributes.headline
An article giving a deeper understanding of these Commandments

# data[].attributes.subject
An article giving a deeper understanding of these Commandments

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Unsplash

By Fay Capstick
We don't think about it much, but our use of computers requires us to make daily and repeated decisions about how we engage with them and what we do. This week we will be thinking about this theme and looking at the often ignored area of computer ethics.
What are computer ethics?
Computer ethics first came to attention in 1985 when the Computer Ethics Institute was created by, among others, The Brookings Institute, IBM and the Washington Theological Consortium. It was originally called the Coalition for Computer Ethics.
Who decided this?
The idea was originally put forward in a paper called 'In Pursuit for a Ten Commandments for Computer Ethics' by Ramon C. Barquin. It was designed to be a guide and standard to follow in how to use computers ethically. They follow the biblical style of the Ten Commandments of behaviour.
How is this relevant to me?
Because you are a user of computers and the internet. It is becoming more relevant every year as the Internet of Things expands.
So what are these ten commandments?

1. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people

2. Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work

3. Thou shalt not access other people's computer files

4. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal

5. Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness

6. Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid (without permission)

7. Thou shalt not use other people's computer resources without authorisation or proper compensation

8. Thou shalt not appropriate other people's intellectual output

9. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the programme you are writing or the system you are designing

10. Thou shalt always use computers in ways that ensure consideration and respect for other humans

What do they mean in practice?
In practice what it is really saying is to think about what you are doing with computers, and to think about the impact your actions could have on others.

This can include not interfering with the work others are doing, so no viruses or malicious software. Doing nothing that could impact peoples work or data files, or prevent their access to them. No hacking or spamming or causing distress in any way through your actions. Never try to gain access to a system that you are not authorised to access and respecting the intellectual property of others.

Commandment 5, not contributing to the spread of misinformation using computers is extremely relevant in the era of social media.

Everyone would do well to follow commandment 10. It is important to show the same respect for others feelings and property that we would show in the real world. An interaction occurring online makes it no less real in its consequences.
Conclusion
Computer ethics is becoming increasingly relevant due to the number of interactions that now take place using computers. We have seen the good and the bad that computers and the internet can have on society. Computer ethics is now taught as part of the GCSE in computer science syllabus, which is a positive step.
Final thoughts
At Parker Shaw we have been at the forefront of the sector we serve, IT & Digital Recruitment and Consulting, for over 30 years. We can advise you on all your hiring needs. If you are looking for your next job in the IT sector please check our Jobs Board for our current live vacancies at https://parkershaw.co.uk/jobs-board.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What are the ten commandments of computer ethics?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We don't think about it much, but our use of computers requires us to make daily and repeated decisions about how we engage with them and what we do. This week we will be thinking about this theme and looking at the often ignored area of computer ethics.

# data[].attributes.headline
Q1. Which of the Ten Ethical Computing Guidelines do you think students violate most often?

# data[].attributes.subject
Q1. Which of the Ten Ethical Computing Guidelines do you think students violate most often?

# data[].attributes.body
I believe that Commandment number 1, is mostly violated by students. Commandment number 1 says, “Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.” Students often break this rule because they may bully others online, spread hurtful messages, or post things without thinking about the impact. Sometimes they don’t realize that their actions online can cause real emotional harm. Since it feels less serious behind a screen, many students end up violating this commandment.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Thou Shalt Not Use A Computer To Harm Other People.

2. Thou Shalt Not Interfere With Other People’s Computer Work.

3. Thou Shalt Not Snoop Around In Other People’s Computer Files.

4. Thou Shalt Not Use A Computer To Steal.

5. Thou Shalt Not Use A Computer To Bear False Witness.

6. Thou Shalt Not Copy Or Use Proprietary Software For Which You have Not Paid.

7. Thou Shalt Not Use Other People’s Computer Resources Without Authorization Or Proper Compensation.

8. Thou Shalt Not Appropriate Other People’s Intellectual Output.

9. Thou Shalt Think About The Social Consequences Of The Program You Are Writing Or The System You Are Designing.

10. Thou Shalt Always Use A Computer In Ways That Insure Consideration And Respect For Your Fellow Humans.

# data[].attributes.headline
Q3. What do you think could be done to reduce or eliminate such unethical behavior?

# data[].attributes.subject
Q3. What do you think could be done to reduce or eliminate such unethical behavior?

# data[].attributes.body
To reduce this behavior, students should be taught early about digital responsibility and how their online actions affect others. Schools and parents can create clear rules and consequences for harmful online behavior. Encouraging kindness and respect, even behind a screen, can help students think twice before acting. If students understand that online jokes can hurt just like in person, they may act more responsibly.

# data[].attributes.headline
Q2. Why do you think these violations occur?

# data[].attributes.subject
Q2. Why do you think these violations occur?

# data[].attributes.body
These violations happen mostly because students don’t always think about the consequences of their actions online. They may see it as just a joke or think it’s not serious since it’s happening on a computer or phone. Many probably think it’s less intense since they are not doing these jokes in person but behind a screen, which makes them feel more protected in a way. Peer pressure and wanting attention can also push them to act in harmful ways, without realizing the real harm they can cause.