Other than the data protection act and computer missuse act, what other laws govern what is legal // illegal to do online within the UK?

I was sure that an ISP for instance could ONLY view the headers of packets sent and recieved by you,and nothing more, is this a myth? if not, where is it writen, if it is, where are the real rules writen? all i can find is laws for the US -- not that usefull for me as im in the uk,

any help would be appreciated, thanks

Buz

Im from the UK aswell and tried several times to find more about the UK laws, to be honest i didnt dig out much. I think you will be interested in this very recent news article though as this if the first case of its kind for a man in the UK to be prosecuted for using someone elses wifi network.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4721723.stm

bah!, thanks man ** goes on search for laws**

There's a number of different legislations that can be used within the auspices of computer crime. In addition to the DPA 98 and CMA 90, the Misuse of Telecoms Act 1984 is heavily used.

The European Human Rights Act 1998 governs what information can be viewed with regards to IT, and does conflict in the intercepting of information with the DPA.

The Prevention of Terrorism Act 2000 also has provision for the intercepting of information via the GSM networks, Internet or normal phone taps. ISPs can be asked to provide information with the presentation of a valid warrant.

With regards to the ISPs storing certain information, it comes down to resources. ISPs are not required to keep information AFAIK, and would fight this due to the cost of the extra resource and latency on their networks.

I'd also look at the ACPO good practice guide to computer based evidence
and the RIPA 2000 for what can be seen/seized.