New 'spyware' law could impose fines of USD3m

Internet Business News, June 21, 2004

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The new 'spyware' law which is being debated by US government bodies could impose fines of up to USD3m on spyware writers.

Law HR2929 called the Securely Protect Yourself Against Cyber Trespass Act or SPY ACT Act was approved by a house subcommittee on 17 June 2004. The new bill is an expanded version of the previously proposed Safeguard Against Privacy Invasion Act (SPI Act).

The bill covers 'deceptive practice' which includes downloading software onto someone's computer without their permission as well as the use of adware that creates endless loops of pop-ups, installing dialers, altering bookmarks, keystroke logging and disabling computer protection software.

The SPY ACT Act will now have to be approved by the House Energy and Commerce Committee before going to a full vote, reports Computer Business Review.

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