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Computer Misuse Notes
Computer Misuse Act 1990
The Computer Misuse Act arose after it became clear that the law was finding it very difficult to cope with abuse of computers. In one case, a defendant had been convicted of criminal damage to a computer, where he had deleted data from a hard disk. The conviction was effective, but unconvincing and inappropriate. It was a distortion, and an unhappy one. One direct effect of the Act was to disallow similar prosecutions in future.
We have a full copy of the Act on-line here.
Notes
These notes are quite incomplete, and must be taken 'as is'
15 November, 1995
Exeter Crown Court - first conviction under s 3 (the anti-virus part) of the 1990 Computer Misuse Act (s3)
Christopher Pile - 'the Black Baron', aged 26, faced 11 charges in respect of two virus programs. Christopher was described as the typical 'anorak' being lonely and friendless,
He received a sentence of 18 months improisonment.
It was claimed that he had 'wreaked mindless havoc' by John Samuel, a police Superintendent. It was a good result, and 'sent a message to all virus writers.'
John Woodmansey, solicitor for Mr Piles said he had a particular talent. He had written something extraordinary, and if directed properly, he could have made a place for himself. Considering appeal
Terence Bates - expert says he wrote from malice - had a point to prove - was the equivalent of electronic graffiti. He had caused many thousand pounds worth of damage.
Microprose - Stephen Merryweather - wanton vandalism - compared to break in factory - no difference destroying the tools of our trade
The program is circulating Europe and America 'has even been found in Northern Ireland
R v Bow Street Magistrates Court, ex parte Alison (HL) 1999