2005 Senate Bill 54

Ban surreptitious “spyware”

Introduced in the Senate

Jan. 25, 2005

Introduced by Sen. Cameron Brown (R-16)

To prohibit installing spyware onto another person's computer or network without the owners consent. Penalties would include up to four year in prison and a $10,000 fine for certain violations. "Spyware" is a program that surreptitiously monitors a person's use of a computer, including where they go on the web, and transmits that information to an advertiser or other person. Note: Senate Bill 151 establishes civil penalties.

Referred to the Committee on Technology and Energy

Feb. 22, 2005

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

March 8, 2005

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that clarifies that a violation must be intentional.

The substitute passed by voice vote

March 9, 2005

Passed in the Senate 37 to 0 (details)

To prohibit intentionally installing spyware onto another person's computer or network without the owners consent, and manufacturing, selling, or possessing spyware with the intent that it be used in this way. Penalties would include up to four year in prison and a $10,000 fine for certain violations. "Spyware" is a program that surreptitiously monitors a person's use of a computer, including where they go on the web, and transmits that information to an advertiser or other person. Senate Bill 151 establishes civil penalties.

Received in the House

March 9, 2005

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary