The Legal Environment Technology Essay Research Paper

Legal Environment
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Background Information on Spyware Software and Collection of Personal Data
Technological enhancements that characterize the 21st century have impacted various sectors of the economy both positively and negatively. They have made the access and sharing of information easy between people situated in different regions. Similarly, they have fostered the collection of personal and confidential information without either a person’s consent or knowledge. Businesses, in particular, collect consumer details such as names, preferences, and habits to use in their marketing initiatives in an exercise called data mining. The government has also embraced the anonymous collection of personal data. It focuses on ensuring the safety of all citizens. The government gathers these details so as even to arrest unfortunate events such as terrorist activities before they happen. One common tool/ software that the government uses to gather information is spyware. The software usually gains control over a person’s computer or digital device without their consent and knowledge, collects personal information, and sends it to a particular individual or entity that installed it. It is also primarily used in tracking a person’s digital and online footprint to determine whether they are engaging in any illegal activities. It is important to note that the collection of personal data without their knowledge or consent is a violation of their privacy. Based on the facts in the case study, the company in question develops spyware software. It sells to government agencies that keep track of phone communications and email conversations to pursue criminals and terrorists. 
Discussion of the identified Ethical and Legal Issues
Some laws have been established to ensure the privacy of all citizens. As such, they deter any forms of spying from the government and other organizations and entities. The company sold the spyware software ...