On the global dimension of computer legislation: a third world perspective

Abstract

While information technology is playing an increasingly important role in all aspects of life in most countries, the rate of computer related crime is alarming. Steps are being taken in many countries to protect members of society against computer abuse. Matters are complicated by the multifaceted nature of information technology products and the rapid developments in the eld. The level and nature of computer legislation vary from one country to another. The extensive cross-border exchange of information technology products makes coordination of legislation and law enforcement e ort on the global level a prerequisite for success. However, computer legislation alone is not su cient to combat computer crime. It needs to be supplemented by an e ort to explain computer legislation and its positive e ects on the quality of life, steps to educate the public on the ethics of computer use and with measures to reduce the appeal of such crimes. This paper addresses the issue of computer legislation and its global dimensions/implications with emphasis on issues pertaining to developing nations. It discusses the problems facing the application of traditional legislation to computer systems and the novel methods needed to account for the nonconventional nature of information technology products. We argue that consideration must be given to the international aspects of computer legislation in order for it to be e cient