# Ethical and Social Issues in ICT - Grade 10 Notes

## Complete Chapter Notes with All Exercises - NEB Curriculum

## 🎯 Chapter Overview

Imagine if someone could steal your identity, read your private messages, or use your photos without permission - all through the internet. Welcome to the digital age, where technology brings amazing opportunities but also creates new challenges and responsibilities.

This chapter explores the ethical dilemmas and social issues that arise from our increasing dependence on Information and Communication Technology (ICT). From understanding your digital footprint to protecting yourself from cybercrime, you'll learn how to be a responsible digital citizen in an interconnected world.

Understanding these concepts is not just about passing exams - it's about navigating the digital world safely and ethically throughout your life.

**Weightage:** 6-8 marks in SEE examination  
**Time Required:** 10-12 periods

## 📚 Learning Objectives

After studying this chapter, you will be able to:

- Define ICT and understand its objectives and impact on society
- Explain social media platforms and practice safe usage
- Understand Electronic Transaction Act (ETA) and its provisions
- Recognize various types of cybercrimes and their prevention
- Understand digital citizenship and ethical behavior online
- Explain intellectual property rights in the digital age
- Use digital signatures and understand digital footprints

## 💻 1. Introduction to ICT

**ICT (Information and Communication Technology)** is a technology concerned with storage, retrieval, manipulation, and transmission of information electronically in digital form.

### Key Components of ICT
- **Information**: Data processed into meaningful form
- **Communication**: Exchange of information between users
- **Technology**: Tools and systems that enable digital processes

### Four Main Objectives of ICT

| Objective | Description |
|-----------|-------------|
| **Good Governance** | Promote transparency and efficiency in administration through ICT |
| **Human Resource Development** | Develop skilled professionals in the ICT field |
| **Accessibility** | Make information technology affordable and accessible to all people |
| **Infrastructure Development** | Develop and expand ICT infrastructure nationwide |

## 📱 2. Social Media

**Social Media** consists of websites and applications that enable people to interact with each other by sharing content quickly and efficiently on the internet.

### Popular Social Media Platforms

| Platform | Primary Function | User Base |
|----------|------------------|-----------|
| **Facebook** | Social networking, sharing updates | General public |
| **Twitter** | Microblogging, news sharing | News, opinions |
| **Instagram** | Photo and video sharing | Visual content |
| **YouTube** | Video sharing and streaming | Entertainment, education |
| **LinkedIn** | Professional networking | Career-focused |
| **TikTok** | Short video sharing | Entertainment |

### Four Ways to Stay Safe on Social Media

#### 1. Strong Password Security
- Use complex passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols
- Change passwords monthly
- Don't share passwords with anyone
- Use different passwords for different accounts

#### 2. Privacy Settings
- Don't set up automatic login on devices
- Review and adjust privacy settings regularly
- Limit who can see your posts and personal information
- Be cautious about location sharing

#### 3. Communication Ethics
- Use polite and respectful language
- Think before you post - content can be permanent
- Avoid sharing controversial or offensive content
- Report cyberbullying or harassment

#### 4. Meeting Safety
- **Never meet online friends alone**
- If meeting is necessary, bring a trusted friend
- Meet in public places
- Inform family members about meetings

### Social Media Benefits and Risks

**Benefits:**
- Global connectivity and communication
- Access to information and news
- Educational resources and opportunities
- Business and marketing platforms

**Risks:**
- Privacy invasion and data theft
- Cyberbullying and harassment
- Addiction and time wasting
- Spread of misinformation

## ⚖️ 3. Electronic Transaction Act (ETA)

The **Electronic Transaction Act** is Nepal's cyber law that legalizes transactions through electronic media and provides a legal framework for digital activities.

### Four Major Advantages of ETA

1. **Fraud Control**: Helps control and stop various types of electronic frauds
2. **Criminal Punishment**: Provides legal basis to punish cyber criminals
3. **Legal Transactions**: Legalizes transactions through electronic media
4. **Network Services**: Provides provisions for network service regulation

### Four Key Objectives of ETA

1. **Punish Cyber Criminals**: Establish legal penalties for cyber crimes
2. **Secure Transactions**: Make electronic transactions reliable and secure
3. **Legalize E-Commerce**: Provide legal recognition to electronic transactions
4. **Digital Signature Control**: Create, control, and verify digital signatures

### Four Main Provisions of ETA

| Provision | Description |
|-----------|-------------|
| **Network Service** | Regulations for internet service providers |
| **Digital Signature** | Legal acceptance of digital signatures and electronic records |
| **Cyber Crime Punishment** | Penalties for various cyber crimes |
| **Judicial Body Formation** | Establishment of courts to handle cyber cases |

### Why Cyber Law is Necessary in Nepal

- **Combat Cyber Crimes**: Address hacking, online fraud, and digital theft
- **Control Internet Misuse**: Prevent abuse of computer and internet resources
- **Legal Framework**: Provide clear guidelines for digital transactions
- **Protect Citizens**: Safeguard people from digital exploitation
- **Economic Growth**: Enable safe digital commerce and e-governance

## 🔐 4. Digital Security Concepts

### A. Digital Signature

**Digital Signature** is a security mechanism used on the internet for digital data processing and transactions through electronic media.

**How It Works:**
- Uses two keys: Public key and Private key
- Private key for signing documents
- Public key for verification
- Ensures document authenticity and integrity

**Benefits:**
- Non-repudiation (can't deny signing)
- Authentication (verifies identity)
- Data integrity (detects tampering)
- Legal validity in electronic transactions

### B. Digital Footprint

**Digital Footprint** is the data traces of all online activities that a person performs while using the Internet.

#### Types of Digital Footprints

| Type | Description | Examples |
|------|-------------|----------|
| **Active Footprint** | Deliberately shared information | Social media posts, comments, uploads |
| **Passive Footprint** | Automatically collected data | Website visits, IP addresses, cookies |

#### Three Main Uses of Digital Footprints

1. **Activity Tracking**: Monitor and track user's online activities
2. **Character Assessment**: Show interests and behavioral patterns of users
3. **Legal Evidence**: Used by law enforcement for character assessment and investigations

#### Managing Your Digital Footprint
- Think before posting anything online
- Use privacy settings on social platforms
- Regularly audit your online presence
- Be aware that deleted content may still exist

## 🚨 5. Cyber Crimes

**Cyber Crime** refers to crimes committed with the help of computers and the internet.

### Common Types of Cyber Crimes

| Crime Type | Description | Impact |
|------------|-------------|---------|
| **Hacking** | Unauthorized access to computer systems | Data theft, system damage |
| **Online Fraud** | Deceiving people for financial gain | Financial loss, identity theft |
| **Cyber Bullying** | Harassment through digital platforms | Emotional trauma, depression |
| **Cyber Stalking** | Repeated harassment using internet services | Psychological harm, fear |
| **Email Bombing** | Sending massive emails to crash systems | System disruption, resource waste |
| **Phishing** | Stealing personal information through fake websites | Identity theft, financial loss |
| **Software Piracy** | Illegal copying and distribution of software | Economic loss, legal issues |
| **Data Theft** | Stealing or destroying data and files | Information loss, privacy violation |

### Penalties Under Nepal's ETA

| Crime | Maximum Imprisonment |
|-------|---------------------|
| **Software Piracy/Code Alteration** | 3 years |
| **Publishing Prohibited Content** | 4 years |
| **General Cyber Crimes** | Varies by severity |

### Preventing Cyber Crimes

**Individual Level:**
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
- Keep software updated
- Be cautious with email attachments
- Don't share personal information online
- Use reputable antivirus software

**Organizational Level:**
- Implement cybersecurity policies
- Regular security training for employees
- Network monitoring and firewalls
- Regular security audits
- Incident response plans

## 👤 6. Digital Citizenship

**Digital Citizenship** refers to the responsibilities and duties of a digital citizen in a digital community.

### Key Principles of Digital Citizenship

#### 1. Digital Etiquette
- Be respectful and polite online
- Follow community guidelines
- Avoid offensive language or behavior
- Respect others' opinions and privacy

#### 2. Digital Literacy
- Understand how to use technology effectively
- Evaluate online information critically
- Protect personal and others' privacy
- Recognize and avoid fake news

#### 3. Digital Rights and Responsibilities
- Right to privacy and free expression
- Responsibility to respect others' rights
- Follow laws and regulations
- Report inappropriate behavior

#### 4. Digital Health and Wellness
- Balance online and offline activities
- Take regular breaks from screens
- Be aware of digital addiction signs
- Maintain physical and mental health

## 📚 7. Intellectual Property Rights

**Intellectual Property** means the property that deals with creations of authors, artists, musicians, and inventors.

### Types of Intellectual Property

| Type | Description | Examples |
|------|-------------|----------|
| **Copyright** | Protects original works of authorship | Books, music, software, videos |
| **Patents** | Protects inventions and innovations | New technologies, processes |
| **Trademarks** | Protects brand names and logos | Company logos, brand names |
| **Trade Secrets** | Protects confidential business information | Formulas, customer lists |

### Digital Age Challenges
- Easy copying and distribution of digital content
- Difficulty in tracking and preventing piracy
- Global nature makes enforcement complex
- Balance between protection and fair use

## 📋 8. Complete Exercise Solutions

### 1. Answer the following questions:

**a. What is ICT?**

**Answer:** Information and Communication Technology is a technology concerned with storage, retrieval, manipulation, and transmission of information electronically in digital form.

**b. What is social media? List any four social medias.**

**Answer:** Social media consists of websites and applications that enable people to interact with each other by sharing content quickly and efficiently on the internet. Four social media platforms:
- YouTube
- Instagram  
- Facebook
- Twitter

**c. List any four advantages of ETA.**

**Answer:** Advantages of ETA:
- Helps control and stop various types of electronic frauds
- Provides legal basis to punish cyber criminals  
- Legalizes transactions through electronic media
- Has provisions for network services

**d. List any four ways that help you stay safe on social media.**

**Answer:** Ways to stay safe on social media:
- Use strong passwords and change them monthly
- Don't share passwords with anyone
- Use polite words when communicating
- Don't set up automatic login on devices

**e. What is digital signature?**

**Answer:** Digital Signature is a security mechanism used on the internet for digital data processing and transactions through electronic media.

**f. Define Digital footprint. Write its usage.**

**Answer:** Digital footprint is the data traces of all online activities that a person performs while using the Internet. Uses:
- Track user's online activities
- Show interests and character of users  
- Used by law enforcement for character assessment

**g. List any four ICT objectives.**

**Answer:** ICT objectives:
- Promote good governance through ICT use
- Develop human resources in ICT field
- Make information technology affordable and accessible
- Develop and expand ICT infrastructure

**h. What is cyber crime? List any four cyber crimes.**

**Answer:** Cyber crimes are crimes committed with the help of computers and internet. Four cyber crimes:
- Cyber bullying
- Online fraud
- Cyber stalking  
- Email bombing

**i. What is intellectual property?**

**Answer:** Intellectual Property means property that deals with creations of authors, artists, musicians, and inventors.

**j. Write any four provisions in Electronic Transaction Act.**

**Answer:** ETA provisions:
- Provision of Network Service
- Provision of punishment on cyber crime
- Provision of duties and responsibilities of subscribers  
- Provision of legal acceptance of digital signatures

**k. Write any four objectives of ETA.**

**Answer:** ETA objectives:
- Punish cyber criminals
- Make transactions reliable and secure
- Legalize transactions through electronic media
- Control, create, and verify digital signatures

**l. Why is cyber law necessary in Nepal?**

**Answer:** Cyber law is necessary in Nepal because it helps deal with cyber crimes like hacking and online fraud. It controls misuse of computers and internet, and helps punish cyber criminals.

### 2. Write Technical terms:

| Description | Technical Term |
|-------------|----------------|
| Website enabling people to interact by sharing content | Social Media |
| Stealing personal information in social media | Phishing |
| Responsibilities of digital citizen in digital community | Digital Citizenship |
| Data traces of online activities | Digital Footprint |
| Crime committed with computer help | Cyber Crime |
| Stealing or destroying data and files | Cyber Crime |
| Repeated harassment using internet services | Cyber Stalking |
| Law legalizing electronic transactions | Electronic Transaction Act |

### 3. Full Forms:

- **ICT** = Information and Communication Technology
- **ETA** = Electronic Transaction Act  
- **ATM** = Automated Teller Machine

### 4. Multiple Choice Answers:

a. Social media platform: **i. Facebook**
b. Internet activities: **iv. All of the above**
c. Meeting Facebook friend alone: **iv. Don't meet him**
d. Not a cybercrime: **i. Authentication**
e. Cyber law deals with: **iv. All of the above**  
f. Nepal's cyber law provisions: **iv. All of the above**
g. Nepal's cyber law known as: **ii. Electronic Transaction Law**
h. Software piracy imprisonment: **iii. 3 years**
i. Prohibited content imprisonment: **iv. 4 years**

### 5. Matching:

- **Decryption** → Converting encrypted data back to original form
- **Digital Signature** → Security mechanism using public and private keys  
- **Hacking** → Stealing data and controlling computer systems
- **Digital Citizenship** → Responsibilities of digital citizens in digital community

## ✅ 9. Chapter Checklist & Exam Tips

**Exam Hotspots 🔥:**

- **ICT Definition and Objectives**: Core concepts frequently tested
- **Social Media Safety**: Practical tips and safety measures
- **ETA Advantages and Provisions**: Key legal framework knowledge  
- **Cyber Crimes Types**: Classification and examples
- **Digital Concepts**: Signatures, footprints, citizenship

**Your Pre-Exam Checklist:**

- [ ] I can define ICT and list its four main objectives
- [ ] I know four major social media platforms and safety measures
- [ ] I understand ETA advantages, objectives, and provisions  
- [ ] I can identify different types of cyber crimes
- [ ] I understand digital citizenship responsibilities
- [ ] I can explain digital signatures and digital footprints
- [ ] I know the penalties under Nepal's cyber law

**Memory Tips:**
- **ICT Objectives**: **G**ood governance, **H**uman resources, **A**ccessibility, **I**nfrastructure (GHAI)
- **Social Media Safety**: **P**assword, **P**rivacy, **P**oliteness, **P**ublic meetings (4 P's)
- **ETA Benefits**: **F**raud control, **C**riminal punishment, **L**egal transactions, **N**etwork services

## 🎊 Conclusion

In our digital world, being technologically literate isn't enough - we must also be ethically aware and socially responsible. The concepts in this chapter will help you navigate the digital landscape safely while respecting others' rights and contributing positively to the digital community.

Remember: Technology is a tool that amplifies human behavior - use it wisely, ethically, and responsibly.

**Key to Success:** Understand Real-World Applications + Know Legal Framework + Practice Digital Ethics = Excellence in ICT Ethics!