This bill amends the Computer Crimes Act to introduce the crime of "digital sabotage of a business," defining it as the unauthorized use or modification of a digital resource that a business relies on. The bill outlines specific actions that constitute digital sabotage, including redirecting internet searches, damaging digital resources, and harming a business's reputation through false information. It establishes a range of penalties based on the extent of damage caused, categorizing offenses from petty misdemeanors for damages of $250 or less to second-degree felonies for damages exceeding $20,000. Additionally, repeat offenders may face enhanced penalties.

The bill also updates definitions within the Computer Crimes Act, including clarifying terms related to digital resources, domain name systems, and financial instruments. New definitions are added to ensure clarity in the context of digital crimes, such as specifying what constitutes a "digital resource" and detailing the function of a "domain name system." The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-45-2