Overview

This bill creates a new criminal offence for impersonating a UK public sector website to collect payments or personal data. It aims to protect citizens from online fraud and enhance the security of online government services.

Description

The Public Sector Website Impersonation Bill makes it a crime to impersonate a website belonging to the UK central government, regional or local authorities, other public bodies, or public undertakings. This offence applies if the impersonation is carried out to collect payments or personal data. Penalties include fines, with the severity determined by any financial gain from the crime. The Secretary of State can issue guidance on identifying legitimate public sector websites. The act applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and will come into force 90 days after it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact government spending. The main costs will likely be associated with issuing guidance and potential legal proceedings related to prosecutions. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Citizens: The bill aims to protect citizens from online fraud and identity theft by making website impersonation a criminal offence.
• Public sector bodies: The bill protects the reputation and integrity of UK public sector organizations.
• Fraudsters: The bill directly targets individuals and groups engaging in online fraud through website impersonation.
• Courts and law enforcement: These groups will be responsible for prosecuting offenders under the new law.

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