Final answer:
Unethical activities in the computer industry are not solely defined by legality but also include actions that are morally questionable or that violate professional codes of ethics, such as those provided by IEEE-CS.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that unethical activities in the computer industry are those that are illegal according to federal, state, and local laws is false. Unethical activities can include legal acts that are morally questionable or that violate professional codes of ethics, without necessarily being illegal. In the computer industry, ethical considerations might encompass issues like user privacy, data security, and the fair use of intellectual property. Ethical guidelines often extend beyond the letter of the law to include professional responsibility and corporate accountability. For instance, the Software Engineering Code of Ethics and Professional Practice, adopted by the IEEE-CS, outlines ethical obligations for software engineers. This includes approving software that meets specific safety and quality standards and avoiding harm to the environment or human life.
Corporate responsibility and codes of ethics are central to guiding ethical conduct within businesses. These codes can cover a broader range of ethical issues than what is strictly enforced by law. Organizations use them to promote a culture of integrity and accountability that aligns with both legal parameters and societal expectations. Globally, different governments might have varied responses to how the internet is accessed or used for certain activities, reflecting diverse ethical standards and legal frameworks.
Business and IT ethics also touch upon broader issues like the ethical implications of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. These discussions aren't confined to legality but include the societal and moral impacts of such technologies, indicating a much wider scope for what is considered unethical in the industry.