Case Study: Viruses

Robert Morris is the son of a well respected computer expert. Robert inserted a virus in a computer network that impacted negatively on over 6000 users. He was caught and tried. He was sentenced to a three year probation, 400 hours of community service and fined $10,000.

Source: Ralph M. Stair, Principles of information systems, Boston: Boyd and Fraser, 1992, Pg 628

Question:

a. Do you think the punishment was strong enough to discourage potential virus intruders in

i) The USA
ii) Europe
iii) Mauritius

b. What would have happened if Mr.Robert Morris were from a country other than the USA and fled his country?

c. What if Mr.Robert Morris were a minor?

d. What do you think motivated Mr.Robert Morris?

e. Do you think Mr.Morris could have been persuaded not to have done this crime? If so how?

f. If Viruses are what we call today, a nuisance to all the activity of any IS/IT systems and we know is a case for all, from Organisation level to Personal level perspective. What would be your practical solution as an IS expert to deal with such situation and what could be your advice to others?