Originated in 1988. This act makes it illegal to circumvent copy-protection technologies, such as those used to prevent unauthorized copying of software CDs, music CDs, and move DVDs.
Children's Online Privacy Protection Act
Originated in 1998. This act regulates the types of data that can be collected and posted online with regard to children under the age of 13.
Originated in 2003. This act establishes national standards for sending commercial e-mail by requiring senders to use a valid subject line, include the sender's legitimate physical address, and provide an opt-out mechanism.
Communications Decency Act
Enacted in 1996. This act protects Internet Service Providers from liability for defamatory statements made by customers.
Electronic Communications Privacy Act
Enacted in 1986. This act extends telephone wiretap laws by restricting government agents and unauthorized third parties from tapping into data transmissions without a search warrant.
Enacted in 1999. This act requires financial institutions to protect the confidentiality and security of customers' personal information.
United States Copyright Act
Enacted in 1976. This act extends copyright protection beyond print media to original works of authorship fixed in any tangible medium.
USA Patriot Act
Enacted in 2001. This act enhances the authority of the law enforcement agents to preempt potential terrorist acts by various means without first obtaining a search warrant in situations where there is imminent danger.