Which of the following best describes 'unauthorized changes to computer data' as stated in the Computer Misuse Act?

The definition of 'unauthorized changes to computer data' as outlined in the Computer Misuse Act refers directly to making alterations to data without the necessary permissions or privileges. This implies that individuals or entities are accessing and modifying information they do not have the authority to manipulate, which can lead to unauthorized access and potential harm to the system, information, or users involved.

In contrast, editing data with permission, updating records regularly, and maintaining data integrity all involve legitimate actions that adhere to established protocols and guidelines. These practices ensure that updates and changes are made within the scope of accepted usage policies, thereby safeguarding data from unauthorized manipulation. Understanding the distinction between authorized and unauthorized data modifications is crucial in recognizing the legal ramifications associated with data handling and security measures outlined in the Computer Misuse Act.