Security and Control of Information Technology in Society (IFIP Transactions A: Computer Science and Technology)

The misuse of information technology (IT) presents a major problem both for Western countries and for the developing world. Dependence on IT is widespread, in the operation and control of a range of social, industrial, commercial, governmental and regulatory processes. It carries with it, threats to personal privacy and freedom and brings new opportunities for criminal activity. These dangers have to be countered and controlled in a manner which balances the great benefits which IT undoubtedly brings. Very careful consideration has to be given to determine the most effective methods of control and regulation of IT. So clarifies Martin Wasik, Professor of Law at Manchester University in his foreword to this book.The publication provides a forum for consideration of the current situation - of what has been done, and of what should be done henceforth, to reduce the misuse of IT. It aims to offer an understanding of threats to IT security and the risks to people and organisations arising from these threats. It also discusses the legal prescriptions required to counteract the threats and to deal with the risks. Further, it establishes the need for close collaboration between legal and technical specialists in the formalisation of remedies. Individual papers examine different aspects of the problem areas and the wide diversity of input from specialists across the world indicates the international significance both of the subject matter and of the book itself.