What does the Computer Misuse Act cover?
The 1990 Act covers crimes such as hacking, viruses, computer fraud and blackmail. The penalty for hacking (unauthorised access to programs or data held on a computer) is a maximum fine of £2000 or a six month prison sentence. The penalty for creating and distributing viruses is an unlimited fine and up to five years imprisonment. The penalty for attempting to carry out computer fraud or blackmail can also be an unlimited fine and again up to five years imprisonment.
