Even as they move rapidly toward taking action against malicious software programs in the next few weeks, federal lawmakers recognize that any move they make will likely have a limited effect on the huge problem of spyware. Fearing that a pending anti-spyware bill, the Spyblock Act, could inadvertently hamper legitimate downloadable products, software makers are busy lobbying for legislation that would pre-empt myriad state initiatives under way.
Earlier this month, Microsoft Corp. Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates was on Capitol Hill talking to lawmakers about a market-driven approach to battling spyware—an approach that has won a number of adherents in Congress. As an alternative to the Spyblock Act, a new measure introduced last week would provide increased resources and tools to enforce existing laws against fraud and deception, set a national standard for unfair and deceptive practices, and increase civil and criminal penalties. It would focus on criminal behavior rather than target a specific technology.
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News source: eWeek
