Cyber Terrorism Can Get You Life in Prison

This was written by Michael W. Cheek on Friday, October 30, 2009, 8:39.

Authorities in India recently passed an amendment to the Information Technology Act of 2008 which recognizes internet criminal activity for the first time in India. Individuals committing acts of “cyber terrorism” now face life in prison if convicted.

The new amended version of the IT Act clarified the rules and procedures for monitoring, intercepting and decoding information and internet traffic. The updated act also covers emerging crimes taking place in cyberspace, including child pornography, cyber terrorism, and a number of other cyber crimes (such as phishing). While some of the changes, particularly in the case of cyber terrorism, are welcomed, some experts believe that the law is too lenient on other offenses.