Senators aim to bolster fight against cyber crimes

A new Senate measure aims to close the gaps in current federal laws to address cyber crimes, including hacking, the theft of confidential information, and the transmission of computer worms and viruses. The measure was one of several technology-related bills filed this week.

The legislation, S. 2213, would make it illegal to threaten to reveal confidential information illegally obtained from computers and to creation "botnets" -- networks of computers that are used to remotely intrude on other machines.

"Botnets have the ability to grow exponentially, and the potential damage from these networks grows accordingly," said bill sponsor Orrin Hatch, R-Utah.

The bill also would change felony requirements so hackers could be charged for damaging 10 or more computers. Current rules force investigators to prove at least $5,000 worth of harm to file felony charges.

Under the measure, investigators could seize equipment used in computer crimes. The bill also would authorize funds for local and federal authorities to investigate and prosecute such crimes.

"Although these crimes are virtual, their impact is measured in real dollars and occasionally in physical injury or death," said lead co-sponsor Joseph Biden, D-Del. "Our laws must keep pace with the changes in Internet technologies."

Biden, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Crime and Drugs Subcommittee, also introduced broad crime legislation that seeks to combat child exploitation, computer crimes and violations of intellectual property rights.

The bill, S. 2237, would authorize $350 million per year for police departments to acquire technology and equipment to track and fight crime. The measure further targets Internet pharmacies that illegally provide prescription drugs.