Ethical, Legal and Environmental Impacts

GCSE Computer Science · Impacts of Technology

Ethical issues

Technology raises questions about privacy, surveillance, the digital divide (unequal access), automation replacing jobs, and online behaviour.

Key UK laws

Law	Protects against
Data Protection Act / GDPR	Misuse of personal data
Computer Misuse Act	Hacking, spreading malware
Copyright, Designs & Patents Act	Copying others' work

Environmental impacts

Negative: high energy use by data centres/devices; e-waste (toxic discarded electronics); use of rare raw materials.
Positive: video calls reduce travel; smart systems cut energy use; cloud sharing reduces printing.

Exam tip

For impact questions, give a balanced answer — discuss benefits and drawbacks — and name the relevant law where appropriate.