Number: RL32706
Title: Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress
Authors: Patricia Moloney Figliola, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The main issue for Congress is whether to enact new legislation specifically addressing spyware, or to rely on industry self-regulation and enforcement actions by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice under existing law. Opponents of new legislation argue that industry self-regulation and enforcement of existing laws are sufficient. They worry that further legislation could have unintended consequences that, for example, limit the development of new technologies that could have beneficial uses. Supporters of new legislation believe that current laws are inadequate, as evidenced by the growth in spyware incidents.
Pages: 8
Date: November 25, 2008