Computer Misuse Act 1990: Primary legislation criminalizing unauthorized access to computer systems. Critical for VAPT as it requires explicit authorization provisions to ensure penetration testers don't violate the Act. Necessitates clear scope definition and written permissions for testing activities.
Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR: Governs the handling of personal data during testing activities, including requirements for data protection impact assessments, data security and confidentiality obligations, and data minimization principles.
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA): Legislation relevant for network monitoring aspects and interception of communications considerations during vulnerability assessment and penetration testing.
Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018: Establishes security requirements for essential services and incident reporting obligations. Must be considered when testing critical infrastructure or essential services.
Telecommunications (Security) Act 2021: Sets security requirements for telecommunications networks. Particularly relevant when testing telecom infrastructure or related systems.
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000: Relevant when testing financial services systems, including FCA regulations and specific requirements for the financial sector.
Human Rights Act 1998: Addresses privacy considerations and employee rights during testing activities. Must be considered when testing systems that could impact individual privacy or employee monitoring.
ISO 27001: International standard for information security management. While not legislation, provides important framework for security testing and assessment procedures.
NCSC Guidelines: National Cyber Security Centre guidelines providing best practices and recommendations for security testing in the UK context.
