Computer Misuse Act 1990
Computer Misuse Act 1990
The Computer Misuse Act 1990 is a piece of law that deals specifically with the crime of accessing or modifying data stored on a computer system without being authorized to do so.
Offense Levels
There are three levels of offenses under the Act:
- Unauthorized access to computer material. Holds a penalty of up to 6 months in prison and a £5,000 fine.
- Unauthorized access with intent to commit or faciliate commission of further offences. Up to 5 years in prison and receive a fine of unlimited amounts, depending on the severity of the crime.
- Unauthorized modification of computer material. Up to 5 years in prison and can receive a fine of unlimited amounts, depending on severity of the crime.
Background Reading: The Computer Misuse Act 1990
Link to original
Background Information
The law was introduced following the 1987 case of Regina v Gold and Schifreen, which saw two hackers remotely access the BT’s Prestel service using credentials gleaned from a BT engineer at a trade show by shoulder surfing.
They hacked into the Prestel and were able to find their way into the email account of the Duke of Edinburgh, the late Prince Philip.