The Ethical and Legal Issues in IT course is designed for Master’s graduate-level students and provides an in-depth examination of the critical ethical, legal, and regulatory challenges faced by IT professionals in today’s digital world. This course explores the intersection of technology and law, focusing on issues such as data privacy, intellectual property, cybersecurity regulations, and the legal implications of emerging technologies. Through case studies, theoretical frameworks, and practical examples, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to manage the ethical and legal risks associated with information technology.
As technology continues to evolve, the need for legal and ethical guidance in IT is becoming increasingly important. This course equips students with the tools needed to address privacy concerns, ensure compliance with data protection laws, and understand intellectual property protections in the digital age. Additionally, students will gain a deep understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the use of technology and the responsibilities of IT professionals to navigate these issues effectively.
By the end of the course, students will be prepared to apply their knowledge to real-world situations and will be equipped to handle the ethical and legal challenges that arise in managing IT systems and digital assets.
Key Points Covered in the Course
- Introduction to Ethical and Legal Issues in IT
- This section introduces students to the ethical and legal challenges in IT, emphasizing the responsibility of IT professionals to make decisions that balance business needs, ethical considerations, and legal requirements.
- Privacy and Data Protection Laws
- Students will explore the major data protection laws such as GDPR and CCPA, examining their impact on organizations and how businesses must comply with these regulations to protect personal data and privacy.
- Intellectual Property in the Digital Age
- This section covers the protection of intellectual property, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. It also addresses challenges related to the digital distribution of content and enforcing intellectual property rights online.
- Cybersecurity Laws and Regulations
- Students will learn about critical cybersecurity laws, including the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA), HIPAA, and PCI DSS, and how these regulations shape cybersecurity practices within organizations.
- Ethical Hacking and Legal Boundaries
- This section discusses the role of ethical hackers in identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities while operating within legal and ethical boundaries. It covers topics such as obtaining permission, confidentiality, and transparency in ethical hacking.
- Emerging Issues in Privacy and Intellectual Property
- Students will examine emerging privacy concerns related to technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data. The section will also address new challenges in protecting intellectual property as digital technologies evolve.