How to prevent hacking and unauthorised entry

Although it is hard to have hacking proof software, there are measure’s to take in order to minimise and prevent people from hacking and entering your computer.  Software patches, updates and drivers are made available, sometimes for free to help computer users keep their software program and operating systems running properly and secure(Computer hope, 2014). One of the most effective measures that can be taken in order to prevent hacking is to place a firewall on the computer. A firewall will help keep hackers from getting into the users system and sending out personal information. A Firewall will stand guard outside the system to block any communications or information exchanges from sources that don't have the user’s permission. Software to prevent hacking are, antivirus software’s, such as Norton anti-virus and AVG. these software’s will scan incoming files and e-mails (Teahuppo, 2014). There are other simple ways to lower the risk of being a victim of hacking, which is making your password difficult words with numbers, and changing your password at least once a month.

(INT, 2014)

Consequences for a hacker

A hacker, who engages in unauthorised entry or hacks another computer, can be punished by a number of different things, depending on the circumstances (Reinhart, 2012). An Individual who commits these can lead straight to confinement. Some Perpetrators remain in jail for multiple years and can face heavy fines (James, 2014) The Queensland law introduced in 1997 states that the perpetrator can face up to ten years maximum term of imprisonment depending on whether (1) an offender simply uses a computer, (2) causes detriment or damage, or gains or intends to gain benefit, or (3) the detriment, damage or gain is valued at more than $5 000 (Australian Government, 2005)

(Hackguide4u, 2011)

Why is hacking and unauthorised entry illegal

Illegal Hacking in Australia is criminalized because, it means that the hacker can smuggle programs into other computers, which means the hacker can see whatever is on the computer it’s hacking and can access any file on the computer and can put unwanted programs on the computer. Hackers can also steal personal information from your computer like passwords and credit card information (NC State University, n.d). Hacking is illegal in most countries because it is an invasion of privacy and it can damage the computer its hacking either manually or through viruses. Although some countries do not press charges because they consider it just another advance in computer technology, although unless the website, individual or company is based in that country, the hacker will be prosecuted by international law (Benwiggy, 2006).

(Babaeizadeh, 2010)

What is Hacking and Unauthorised entry

Computer hacking is when a computer user modifies a computers hardware and software to accomplish a goal outside of the creators original purpose (wise geek, 2014). People who undertake these hacking procedures are known as hackers. In contrast to those who involve them selves in a legal career in hacking. Since the early eighties skilled computer enthusiasts, or hackers, have used their knowledge to break into systems with no redeeming intent (Applicure, N.D). These hackers can steal personal information, change a corporation’s financial data, and break security codes to gain unauthorised access, or cause other destructive activities. These illegal activities can result in a hacker being put into jail and can serve from up to 20 years (wise geek, 2014)


(Radford, 2011)