NCJ Number
139078
Journal
EuroCriminology Volume: 2 Dated: (1988) Pages: 73-89
Date Published
1988
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Computers have changed the fundamental nature of society and have raised a number of legal policy questions related to privacy issues and computer crime.
Abstract
Risks associated with modern computer systems concern the use of standardized language which may distort data, immediate access to and transmission of information, and the rapid analysis of information. A key issue in the use of computer systems also relates to the rights of public authorities versus private citizens. Citizens often view the collection of information about their lives as a threat. Consequently, some governments restrict the collection and use of information about their citizens. For example, Denmark has a law prohibiting the registration of information on political affiliations which is not accessible to the general public. The central question is whether public authorities or private registers can use information without the consent of the registered person. All individuals should have the right to know whether information about them has been computerized. Further, the fact that someone has obtained information from registers does not necessarily mean that person can use the information. The use of computers in police work and the investigation of computer crime are addressed.