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Computers & Society

Module 3 Description

Welcome to Computers & Society and Module 3!

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized

- Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

But this is Computers & Society, why are we talking about the Fourth Amendment?

A fundamental understanding of the Fourth Amendment is important toward understanding how law enforcement agencies intercept communications and search homes and businesses to collect evidence of criminal activities. Many of these communications occur online and/or involve computers in some way. In this module, we will delve into the Fourth Amendment.

Class Readings

Please read the following for Module 3:

"The Fourth Amendment in the Digital Age" from the Brennan Center for Justice.  You can either click on the link to go to the website or download the PDF.

"Your Digital Trail: Does the Fourth Amendment Protect Us?" from NPR news.  You can either read the story or listen to the audio.

DQ 6 Readings

Read or listen to this NPR news story and the additional article from ASBMB Today and follow the directions on your syllabus:

DQ 7 Reading

Read or listen to this NPR news story and follow the directions on your syllabus: