Criminal Offences (Misuse of Digital Technologies and Services) (Consolidation) Bill

Official Summary

A Bill to consolidate offences relating to the misuse of digital devices, technologies, systemsand services for the purposes of committing or preparing to commit or aiding, abetting, facilitating or concealing the commission of a crime or disposal of theproceeds of a crime; to make provision reflecting technological advancements, including the training of criminal justice personnel; to establish a duty for theSecretary of State to provide advice and guidance to the digital andtelecommunications services industry aimed at reducing the misuse of digitaltechnologies for criminal purposes; and for connected purposes.

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Overview

This bill aims to consolidate existing laws on digital crime, improve training for law enforcement, and establish guidelines for digital service providers to reduce the misuse of digital technologies for criminal activities. It also mandates reviews of current legislation and the creation of a code of conduct for online services.

Description

The bill defines "digital crime" broadly, encompassing any crime using digital technologies for various illicit purposes, including harassment, stalking, hate crimes, and cyber theft. It mandates a review of existing legislation related to digital crime to consolidate it into a single Act. This review must consider numerous existing Acts (listed within the original bill text) and consult with various stakeholders such as police forces, the Crown Prosecution Service, the judiciary, and relevant community organizations. The Secretary of State is required to publish a draft of this consolidated bill within 12 months of completing the consultation. The bill also places a duty on the Secretary of State to facilitate training and education on digital crime awareness for students and police officers. Finally, it empowers the Secretary of State to create a code of conduct for digital service providers, addressing issues like user safety, age-appropriate controls, and the reporting of illegal content.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. However, costs will likely be incurred in undertaking the legislative review, developing educational programs, creating the code of conduct for digital service providers, and publishing annual reports on the incidence of digital crime. The precise financial implications will depend on the scale of these initiatives.

Groups Affected

Law enforcement agencies: Increased training and reporting requirements.
Digital service providers: New responsibilities regarding user safety, content moderation, and reporting of illegal activities; potential costs associated with compliance.
Educational institutions: Duty to provide digital safety guidance to students.
Individuals: Greater protection from digital crimes; potential changes to online privacy settings.
Victims of digital crime: Potentially improved reporting mechanisms and increased accountability for perpetrators.

Full Text

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