Societal Impact 11 Computer Science Chapter 11 CBSE Notes 2025-26

Digital technologies have transformed the way we live, work, and communicate in recent years. Activities that once required days, such as sending physical letters, can now be accomplished within seconds via email and other electronic platforms. From banking and aviation to e-commerce and social networking, almost every sector benefits from the rapid evolution and adoption of digital tools. This chapter explores the impact of these technologies on society and highlights important practices for staying safe and responsible online.

Whenever we use the internet, whether by searching for information, making online purchases, or responding to emails, we leave a data trail known as a digital footprint. A digital footprint includes information about the websites visited, emails sent, data submitted online, IP addresses, locations, and devices used. This data can be used for targeted advertising but may also be misused. It's important to realise that digital footprints can be created intentionally or unintentionally.

• Active digital footprints are formed when users deliberately provide information online, such as filling forms, posting comments, or writing emails.
• Passive digital footprints are created automatically, for example, by simply browsing websites or using mobile applications without direct input.

Digital footprints expand with more frequent internet use, and they are hard to erase completely. Caution is necessary while sharing anything online, as this data can reveal personal details and can be traced back to the user and their device.

Today’s society is highly reliant on digital technologies. Tasks such as communication, education, shopping, entertainment, and transportation are increasingly completed online. Anyone actively using digital technology and the internet is called a digital citizen or “netizen.” Being a good netizen involves using technology safely, legally, and ethically, and following proper online behavior or etiquettes.

• Be Ethical: Avoid copyright violations and share knowledge responsibly.
• Be Respectful: Respect others' privacy and acknowledge cultural diversity.
• Be Responsible: Never engage in cyberbullying or provoke negative exchanges online.

Proper netiquette strengthens the digital ecosystem by promoting positive, respectful, and safe interactions among users.

• Be precise in messages and respect others’ time and data limits.
• Always be polite and credible when communicating online.

Protecting personal and confidential data is a priority when engaging in online interactions. Users should avoid oversharing and be careful with what they disclose.

• Be Secure: Use strong, unique passwords and be mindful about accepting friend requests or interactions from strangers. Always verify information to avoid falling for fake news or scams.
• Be Reliable: Think before uploading or sharing content. Evaluate the reliability and impact of posts.

Staying alert to fake information, scams, and privacy risks is a key part of using social media responsibly.

Data protection in the digital age means maintaining the privacy and security of sensitive information such as biometric, financial, health, and personal details. Safeguarding this data often requires encryption, authentication, and other secure practices to prevent misuse or theft.

• Copyright: Provides creators with exclusive rights to their original works like art, literature, and software.
• Patent: Protects inventions and offers exclusive usage rights for up to 20 years.
• Trademark: Identifies and protects brands using unique names, symbols, or designs.

The rights above are known as Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Violation of IPR includes plagiarism, copyright infringement, and trademark misuse. Software piracy and unauthorised use of others’ work are serious offenses, and must be avoided.

• Open public licenses such as GNU GPL and Creative Commons make content and software freely available for use and modification.
• Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) allows anyone to improve, use, or distribute programs legally.
• Avoid downloading or using pirated software to stay safe and compliant.

Learning about open/public licensing empowers users to access and contribute to the digital community without violating legal rights.

Cyber crime refers to illegal acts committed in digital environments, such as hacking, spreading malware, or committing online fraud. These activities can disrupt individuals, organisations, or even entire networks.

• Hacking: Ethical hackers improve security by finding vulnerabilities, while non-ethical hackers exploit weaknesses for malicious purposes.
• Phishing: Attempts to trick users into revealing sensitive data through fake emails, messages, or websites.
• Identity Theft: Stealing someone’s personal, financial, or medical information for criminal use.
• Ransomware: Malicious software blocks access to a user’s data or device until a ransom is paid.

Preventing cyber crime involves using updated antivirus software, regular backups, strong passwords, secure wireless connections, and caution with unknown emails and websites. Avoiding pirated software and keeping systems up to date are also essential steps.

The Information Technology Act, 2000, amended in 2008, is India’s key law for digital information, data protection, and cyber crime. It provides the framework for electronic records, digital signatures, and legal recognition of online transactions. The act defines various cyber crimes and their respective penalties. Disputes regarding cyber crime can be resolved via the Cyber Appellate Tribunal.

Digital signatures under this act use a unique digital ID issued by a certified authority to authenticate users and documents.

Long periods of improper computer or mobile device usage can have physical and mental health consequences. Ergonomics is the science of designing workplaces and habits to prevent discomfort or injury. Regularly cleaning devices, sitting with correct posture, and taking frequent breaks are recommended.

• Incorrect posture may lead to eye strain, back and neck pain, or wrist and finger problems.
• Excessive digital exposure may cause stress, fatigue, or even obesity.
• Balancing digital use with physical activity, hobbies, and outdoor time promotes better well-being.

Enjoying digital advancements responsibly and maintaining healthy habits are essential for both mental and physical health.

• Digital footprints are unintentional or intentional online data trails created by individuals during their internet usage.
• Practicing good net etiquette, communication, and social media manners is critical for digital citizenship.
• Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and open licensing play a major role in protecting data and encouraging free software use.
• Cyber crimes such as hacking, phishing, and ransomware pose real threats but can be reduced by following safety and prevention strategies.
• The Indian IT Act provides a legal framework for digital transactions and cyber security.
• Healthy digital practices, ergonomics, and a balanced lifestyle help avoid health issues due to excessive device use.

CBSE Class 11 Computer Science Chapter 11 Notes – Societal Impact: Key Revision Points

These Class 11 Computer Science Chapter 11 notes cover all crucial points on Societal Impact, including digital footprints, net etiquettes, cyber crime, data protection, and health effects. The notes make revision clear and simple, helping you understand key definitions and examples quickly before your exams.

By using these CBSE Class 11 Computer Science notes for Chapter 11, you can strengthen your grasp of modern digital issues and stay confident about important exam topics. Structured points and summaries ensure you revise smarter and remember essential facts on Societal Impact.