Misuse of Computerised Personal Files - Legal and Technical Considerations, with Particular Reference to Certain Applications of Real-Time Systems in Local Government

Abstract

The thesis describes the use of personal information by local authorities in their routine administration, and extrapolates some conclusions about problems of processing this information in a computerised environment of the future. A model of privacy-risk situations is presented. The aim of this is to provide a basis for legal and technical analysis, by representing both human and technical factors. The law relating to privacy of information, the state of the art of techniques for controlling access to computer-stored information, and the role of information processing in local authorities, are each surveyed. Detailed studies of current practice in handling personal information are given in four areas, namely: Social Services, Housing, Education and Finance. Proposals are made for a combination of legal reforms and technical measures which would safeguard the interests of the individual about whom data is stored. Central to these is the idea of a "privacy label", used in conjunction with dispersed centres of control within the information system.

Divisions: College of Business and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences & Humanities > Centre for Critical Inquiry into Society and Culture (CCISC)
Additional Information: Copyright © A C J Hawker, 1974. A C J Hawker asserts their moral right to be identified as the author of this thesis. This copy of the thesis has been supplied on condition that anyone who consults it is understood to recognise that its copyright rests with its author and that no quotation from the thesis and no information derived from it may be published without appropriate permission or acknowledgement. If you have discovered material in Aston Publications Explorer which is unlawful e.g. breaches copyright, (either yours or that of a third party) or any other law, including but not limited to those relating to patent, trademark, confidentiality, data protection, obscenity, defamation, libel, then please read our Takedown Policy and contact the service immediately.
Institution: Aston University
Uncontrolled Keywords: computerised personal files - legal and technical considerations,real-time systems,local government
Last Modified: 28 Jun 2024 07:07
Date Deposited: 26 May 2011 10:31
Completed Date: 1974-04
Authors: Hawker, A.C.J.

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