UK Proposes Life Sentences For Hackers Behind Major Cyberattacks

The United Kingdom isn't playing around when it comes to cyberattacks. In a proposed new bill, the nation seeks to impose life sentences onto hackers who commit a serious cyberattack, with the criteria of such an offense covering several different bases.

The proposed law was revealed in the Queen's speech, specifying that hackers who perform "cyberattacks which result in loss of life, serious illness or injury or serious damage to national security, or a significant risk thereof" would be locked up for life.

The proposed bill was detailed yesterday, and with it also comes more severe punishments for those who engage in corporate espionage, slapping those offenders with up to 14 years in prison. Under current law, up to a decade is possible.

Critics of the law point out potential issues when it comes to researchers who could run afoul of it. Those in favor of it, however, have argued that such harsh penalties will allow for sentences that are commensurate to the harmful actions performed.

SOURCE: The Guardian