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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 23, 2017 10:07 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Brandon P. Neuman |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Prohibiting Acts of “Phishing” (former H.B. 969 of 2015) |
In the near future I will reintroduce legislation—former House Bill 969 of 2015—that seeks to prevent acts of “phishing.” My legislation amends Chapter 76 of Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by creating a new subchapter E establishing “phishing” as a crime. “Phishing” is the act of sending an email or other electronic message via the internet that appears legitimate, but actually directs users to a bogus website that requests personal information. Passwords, personal identification numbers, social security numbers and bank account numbers are common targets for criminals using phishing scheme. As internet use increases, so does the number of phishing scams. Not only are these scams increasing, but they are also becoming more technologically sophisticated, inducing more individuals into the scams. This legislation would make these acts a criminal offense and set forth criminal and civil penalties. Enforcement powers would be provided to County District Attorneys and the Pennsylvania Attorney General, civil action may be brought by Internet service providers and the Attorney General. The Attorney General may also bring action under the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law. The bill does not hold internet service providers liable for removing or withholding any website, information or data transmission that it believes would be a violation of this act. As members of the General Assembly, I believe we have a responsibility to help protect Pennsylvanians’ personal information from falling into the hands of internet criminals. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important, consumer protection legislation. |
Introduced as HB1036
Memo Updated: March 23, 2017 10:08 AM