Access to email address

[MangoPete]

Hi There, a legal question for you all
If you have set up an email address for someone including the password and showed them how to use it and then help them to use it sorting out problems for them is it seen as illegal by the company , hotmail etc to access their account?.
I think not if they have given their permission and they can change the password.
What do you guys think

[Buenchico]

Quote:
"�(1) A person is guilty of an offence if�

(a) he causes a computer to perform any function with intent to secure access to any program or data held in any computer;

(b) the access he intends to secure is unauthorised; and

(c) he knows at the time when he causes the computer to perform the function that that is the case"

Source:
Computer Misuse Act 1990, Section 1 (which also specifies a maximum penalty of a �5000 fine and/or 6 months in prison):
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1990/Ukpga_199 00018_en_2.htm#mdiv1

('Access to data in any computer' would certainly include accessing another person's e-mail on the server of their account provider).

Chris

[rojash]

I think the important phrase here is "with their permission". If you have that, then the action will fall outside clauses (b) and (c) in Chris's reply.

[MangoPete]

Hi Ok Having read the law link sent by Chris I think I understand.
This law is for unauthorised useage not authorised otherwise millions would be in court.
Thanks for clearing this up folks

[boobesque]

i think its just because you know the password doesnt mean that you can invade his personal emails. If you found a key to my house, it would still be illegal for you to let yourself in. If i gave you a key, it would still be illegal if i told you to never come in but you did so anyway

[MangoPete]

Woah Boobesque chiilout
As I have said I have permission
This is a guy who was learning for the first time. he has gone into hospital and is undergoing chemo, he wanted me to check his mail. I just wanted to be sure.

AND If I gained access to your home with a key I could squatt there and you would have to get a court order to remove me,if I refused to leave.