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Discuss and explore the implications of the BACP Code of Ethics

Weak computer systems can easily be accessed by hackers, indeed a hacker often has more access over a computer system than the employees of a company; staff usually have restricted access or limited authority, this is usually set by network administrators.

Not only is there a risk of an attack on the counsellor's computer; the client's computer may have hidden programs that transmit information illegally without their knowledge. Risks can be almost eliminated using the appropriate up-to-date software such as: file virus checkers, 'firewalls' to monitor the ports through which Internet connections are formed; SSL encryption of confidential information. The implementation of safety systems, for example, transferring sensitive data from the networked computer to an un-networked storage point is perhaps the best method of safeguarding and isolating confidential information.

There are many weak-points of using computer systems to communicate, after all, they are complex boxes of technology but this need not be a disadvantage. The safety measures that I suggest are all available and free of charge. It is the counsellor's responsibility to protect their client and inform them of risks; forwarding 'links' (a path to a specific location or site on the internet) to the download location of the software would be appropriate. The security issue could become part of the contracting process. I recognise that you cannot force someone to install 'recommended' software but in respect of confidentiality, the contract must state what precautions are being taken on the part of bothe the client and the counsellor.

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