4. Offence 3

Unauthorised modification of computer material

Everyone deletes files from their own system, maybe they no longer need them or maybe they delete them by mistake. This is fine - there was no intent to cause any damage.

This offence relates to the deletion or changes made to files with the intent to cause damage to an individual or company. The difference is 'the intent to cause damage'.

This offence also covers purposely introducing viruses to other peoples' systems.

Writing a virus technically isn't a crime; but if you knowingly transmit a virus to others, you are guilty under this section of the Computer Misuse Act.

This offence carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and/or a fine.