Module 7: Computer Abuses

SAQ 7-1

2. What are computer worms and viruses? Explain how these operate. Give examples.

1. What is spamming? Differentiate it from flaming.

Spamming is the use of any electronic communications medium (most common form is an e-mail), to send unsolicited messages in bulk for many purposes like commercial, the most intent. Spamming means sending unwanted messages to people whereas flaming means sending useless messages that only hurt people's feelings.

A virus is a small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example, a virus might attach itself to a program such as a spreadsheet program. Each time the spreadsheet programs runs, the virus runs too, and it has the chance to reproduce (by attaching to other programs) or wreak havoc. A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well. The example is the SASSER worm.

3. Choose one example of computer abuse that you think is morally wrong. Explain why you consider using any ethical principles you have learned in the earlier modules.

I chose computer worms and viruses. For me, with John Stuart Mill's Utilitarianism that the determination of ethical standard would be more or less afford to the universal acceptance of human action. In this case, large volume of people can be affected to suffering. Although it can be morally good relative to other side (Ethical Egoism), but the consequences of an action are more unfavorable than favorable. That is the reason why my determination of the action is morally unethical.

Animated Design of Razel Gil Patalinghug UP Open University Master in Information System IS201 Computer Ethics