| Abstract: | Cyber attacks are becoming commonplace in the business world today. But, it isn't just affecting the large businesses and conglomerates. Computer experts are indicating that it is affecting millions of computers worldwide and is causing professionals, academics, and government officials to rethink computer information's security. But how are these new age criminals gaining their skills? Many are suggesting it is the hallowed halls of the nation's and world's universities and colleges, and even the lower educational levels, which are providing the skills. As technology is exponentially increasing, so is the incidence of cyber attacks. In the recent episodes of computer espionage and attacks, hackers have become much more sophisticated and more alarmingly, much younger. The computer is a man-made device that requires political, legal, and ethical responsibilities. In assessing the social responsibilities associated with information technology as we move into the new millennium, the organization must address three simple questions: (1) Is it legal?; (2) Is it balanced?; and (3) How will it make me feel? An ethical environment within an organization utilizing information technology can be easily established, with or without an ethics officer, if the organization follows the guide of these questions. This ethical environment will demonstrate a corporate and educational conscience that could lead the organization into the next century. Colleges and universities call for proactivity rather than reactivity. |
