Assembly approves changes to law on misuse of computers |16 August 2012

Minister for Home Affairs and Transport Joel Morgan presented the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Bill before the assembly.

The amendment made is to provide a wider definition of the word ‘computer’ to encompass other data processing devices performing logical, arithmetic or storage functions such as 3G phones through which an offence under this Act may be committed.

He said the new definition of computer is in line with new technological developments especially regarding storage of information.

With the introduction of storage devices such as external hard drives, pen drives, 3G phones and other related gadgets whereby a person can have unauthorised access to information, it is required that these equipment are included under this Act.

The new definition of computer is an electronic, magnetic, optical, electrochemical, or other data processing device, or a group of such interconnected or related devices, performing logical, arithmetic, or storage functions, and includes any data storage facility or communications facility directly related to or operating in conjuction with such device or group of such interconnected or related devices.

Mr Morgan said it is the government’s view that with this new amendment, information found on such equipment which have been defined in this amendment will be better protected and legal actions will be taken against those who gets unauthorised access with these equipment or data, with the intention of committing a criminal offence.

Mr Morgan said there is a need to modernise several acts related to the development of technology in Seychelles.