Brussels, 04/07/2013 (Agence Europe) - In Strasbourg on Thursday, MEPs adopted tougher rules on cybercrime (attacks on computer systems). The draft directive they adopted requires member states to introduce minimum two-year prison sentences for the following crimes: hacking into information systems or illegally interfering with said systems, unauthorised interference with data, hacking into messages or making and selling tools for similar crimes. Lesser crimes are not covered, but it will be for the member states to decide what constitutes a minor case. The maximum prison sentence for attacks on critical infrastructure, like nuclear power stations, transport and government computers, can be at least five years. The same penalties will apply for crimes by the mafia or other criminal organisations or if serious damage is caused. The draft directive introduces a sentence of at least three years in prison for use of zombie networks to control a significant number of computers remotely by infecting them with worms through targeted cyber-attacks.
Informal agreement has been reached with the Council of Ministers. The idea is to prevent cybercrime and make it easier for the police and judiciary to cooperate in this domain. EU member states will have to respond to urgent requests for help from other member states in the event of a cyber-attack within eight hours.
A resolution drafted by Monika Hohlmeier (EPP, Germany) was adopted by 541 votes to 91, and 9 abstentions. (SP/transl.fl)