CS/CS/CS/HB 641 - Computer Crimes

• Expands the definition of "electronic device" to include cellular telephones, tablets, and other portable devices designed to communicate across computer networks.

• Creates new offense of "offense against intellectual property" for unauthorized introduction of computer contaminants or destruction/modification of data, programs, or documentation on computers or electronic devices (third-degree felony).

• Makes unauthorized disclosure or taking of trade secrets or confidential data from electronic devices an offense against intellectual property (third-degree felony, or second-degree if committed for fraud purposes).

• Creates new section 815.061 establishing criminal penalties for unauthorized access to or tampering with computers, computer systems, or networks owned or operated by public utilities (third-degree felony for unauthorized access; second-degree felony for tampering that disrupts utility services).

• Expands offenses against computer users to include audio or video surveillance through electronic devices and adds new second-degree felony for unauthorized access to public transit systems; establishes that service providers (interactive computer services, information services, communications services) are not liable under the chapter.

• Effective date: October 1, 2014.