| Gordon votes to outlaw spyware |
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By: June 7, 2007 11:19 PM
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WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon voted Wednesday to help protect computer users from dangerous Internet spyware programs that can be used to commit identity theft.
"As criminals use newer technology to target their victims, we need to do a better job of protecting consumers," said Gordon, a co-sponsor of the bill. "This bill will help to ensure America's laws keep pace with our high-tech society."
The U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 964, the Securely Protect Yourself Against Cyber Trespass Act. The bill bans transmission of information-collection programs, or spyware, without the user's consent. It prohibits unauthorized computer users from engaging in deceptive practices such as modifying computer settings, collecting personal information by monitoring keystrokes, encouraging installation of unsolicited software and disabling security features.
The bill would allow the Federal Trade Commission to punish a violation as an "unfair and deceptive practice," allowing civil penalties of up to $11,000 per violation. Repeated violations could bring penalties of up to $3 million.
Last month, the House passed another bill to help combat spyware, which can lead to identity theft. That bill would establish criminal penalties for crimes committed by using spyware.
"There are 9 million cases of identity theft each year in the U.S, and it can take years to restore your good name if your identity is stolen," said Gordon. "Strong penalties like these may make identity thieves think twice about stealing someone's personal information."
Gordon is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet.
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