Ethical Computing Information Wall by Thomas Sawicki

The Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics

sawickth — 2025-09-28 17:04:17 UTC

Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.
Thou shalt not interfere with other people’s computer work.
Thou shalt not snoop around in other people’s computer files.
Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.
Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness.
Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid.
Thou shalt not use other people’s computer resources without authorization or proper compensation.
Thou shalt not appropriate other people’s intellectual output.
Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or the system you are designing.
Thou shalt always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect for your fellow humans.

Resources to Support Ethical Computing

sawickth — 2025-09-28 17:08:52 UTC

Images/Infographics

Posters of the Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics
Cyberbullying prevention infographics

Videos

Short YouTube clips on online safety and digital citizenship
Tutorials on respecting intellectual property and copyright

Interactive Resources

Podcasts on ethical hacking and cybersecurity awareness
Audio lessons on plagiarism and academic honesty

Q1. Which of the Ten Ethical Computing Guidelines do students violate most often?

sawickth — 2025-09-28 17:09:36 UTC

The most common violation among students is copying or using proprietary software, music, videos, or academic material without permission (Commandments 6 and 8). Plagiarism and illegal downloads are widespread.

Q2. Why do you think these violations occur?

sawickth — 2025-09-28 17:10:27 UTC

These violations often occur because:

Students see digital content as “free” or easily accessible
Peer pressure and the culture of “everyone does it”
Lack of awareness about copyright laws and academic honesty
Convenience—downloading or copying feels quicker than purchasing or creating original work

Q3. What do you think could be done to reduce or eliminate such unethical behavior?

sawickth — 2025-09-28 17:10:52 UTC

Strategies to reduce violations:

Education: Schools should provide digital literacy and ethics lessons starting early.
Awareness Campaigns: Posters, reminders, and interactive workshops about plagiarism and piracy.
Access to Legal Alternatives: Universities providing free or discounted access to software, journals, and media.
Accountability: Implement plagiarism detection tools and clear consequences for violations.
Modeling Ethical Behavior: Teachers and mentors should lead by example in citing sources and using resources responsibly.