PC4S029 - Governing and Securing Cyber Space 01 Sep 2023 - 31 Aug 2029 | Version 4

Associated Module Information

Module Code: PC4S029
Module Title: Governing and Securing Cyber Space
Faculty: Faculty of Life Sciences and Education
Faculty Group: Policing and Criminology
Faculty Sub Group: Policing
Module Leader: Ethem Ilbiz, Helen Martin
Module Team: Christian Kaunert, Mike Edwards, Ian McKim
First Intended Intake: SEP 2019 Final Year of Intake: 2024
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 7
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100486 - policing
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 4
Valid From 01 Sep 2023
Valid To 31 Aug 2029

Module Aims

To develop critical examination and analytical skills of concepts and frameworks in internet governance and cyber space.

To facilitate students masterly knowledge in the legal, socio- cultural and ethical issues within the governance and security of cyber space.

Content Summary

The module titled \\\"Governing and Securing Cyberspace \\\" provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts and frameworks related to governing and securing cyberspace. The module covers various aspects, including the historical dimension and infrastructure, internet governance, cyber threats, cybercrime, hacktivism, cyber warfare, cyber governance models, international and national cybersecurity strategies, advocacy groups, private sector involvement, international cybersecurity standards, and the impact of disruptive technologies on data privacy.

The module begins by exploring the historical dimension and infrastructure of computers, tracing the evolution of computer systems and the history of the internet. It highlights the conceptualization of cyberspace, including its layers and data transmission methods, setting the foundation for understanding the complex nature of the digital realm.

The module delves into internet governance and major institutional frameworks, providing insights into the organizations and bodies responsible for overseeing and regulating various aspects of the internet. It covers the historical background of cyber threats, focusing on malware and the cyber kill chain, offering a glimpse into the methods employed by cybercriminals.

Cybercrime and its various types are examined in detail, shedding light on the different forms of malicious activities conducted in cyberspace. Additionally, the module explores hacktivism and cyberterrorism, discussing the motivations and tactics employed by hacktivist groups and the implications of cyberterrorism on national security.

The module addresses the topics of cyber warfare, cyber espionage, cyber sabotage, and cyber subversion, providing an understanding of these emerging threats and their potential impact on governments, organizations, and society as a whole.

Cyber governance models are explored, presenting various frameworks and approaches to managing and regulating cyberspace at the national and international levels. The module discusses international cyber governance structures and highlights the strategies and initiatives undertaken by nations to ensure cybersecurity within their borders.

The role of advocacy groups and the private sector in influencing cybersecurity policies and practices is also examined, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and partnerships in addressing cyber threats effectively.

International cybersecurity standards and their significance in promoting global cooperation and information sharing are discussed, with a focus on establishing common frameworks for cybersecurity practices.

Lastly, the module explores the impact of disruptive technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) on data privacy. It examines the challenges and opportunities presented by these technologies and emphasizes the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 10
Seminar 16
Independent Study 74
Directed Study 95
Formative Assessment - Independent 1
Active/Simulation Based 4
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Exhibit advanced knowledge in determining, establishing and maintaining appropriate governance strategies within cyber space.
LO2 Critically examine the risks and challenges from varying threat categories and identify through recommendations, an appropriate strategy to maintain security.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Synchronous Online Oral Assessment Presentation (Synchronous Online) 1 A presentation based on a relevant cyber related topic as part of a webinar. 10 N/A 30 No 40
Asynchronous Assessment Essay 1 Essay to critically discuss cyber related issues. 0 4000 70 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Presentation (Synchronous Online) 1
Essay 1

Reading List

Akdeniz, Y., Walker, C. and Wall, D. (2000) The Internet, law and society. Harlow: Longman.

Beake, S. (2014) Data brokers and the need for transparency and accountability. New York: Nova Publishers.

Coleman, R. and McCahill, M. (2011) Surveillance and crime. London: SAGE.

Ellis, R. and Mohan, V. K. (eds) (2019) Rewired cybersecurity governance. First edition. Hoboken, N.J., USA: Wiley

Jewkes, Y. and Yar, M. (2010) Handbook of Internet crime. Cullompton: Willan

Jordan, T. and Taylor, P. A. (2004) Hacktivism and cyberwars: rebels with a cause? London: Routledge

Karatzogianni, A. (2012b) Violence and war in culture and the media: five disciplinary lenses. London: Routledge.

Kremling, J. and Parker, A. M. S. (2018b) Cyberspace, cybersecurity, and cybercrime. First edition. Los Angeles: SAGE Publications.

Mehan, J. and Mehan, J. E. (2014) Cyberwar, Cyberterror, Cybercrime & Cyberactivism (2nd Edition): An in-depth guide to the role of standards in the cybersecurity environment. 2nd ed. Ely: IT Governance Ltd.

Sykes, C. J. (1999) End of Privacy. St. Martin’s Press

Thornburgh, D. (2002) Youth, pornography, and the Internet. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press

Van Puyvelde, D. and Brantly, A. F. (2019) Cybersecurity: politics, governance, and conflict in cyberspace. Cambridge, UK: Polity Press

Verton, D. (2003) Black Ice: The Invisible Threat of Cyber-Terrorism. McGraw-Hill Education.

Warner, M. (2012) ‘Cybersecurity: A Pre-history’, Intelligence and National Security, 27(5), pp. 781–799

Yar, M. (2019) Cybercrime and society. London: Sage Publications.