Practical UNIX and Internet Security, 3rd Edition

Criminal Subject Matter

Possession and/or distribution of some kinds of information is criminal under U.S. law. If you see suspicious information on your computer, you should take note. If you believe that the information may be criminal in nature, you should contact an attorney first—do not immediately contact a law enforcement officer, as you may indirectly admit to involvement with a crime merely by asking for advice.

Access Devices and Copyrighted Software

Federal law (18 USC 1029) makes it a felony to manufacture or possess 15 or more access devices that can be used to obtain fraudulent service. The term access devices is broadly defined and is usually interpreted as including cellular telephone activation codes, account passwords, credit card numbers, and physical devices that can be used to obtain access.

Federal law also makes software piracy a crime, as well as possession of unlicensed copyrighted software with the intent to defraud. The rental of software without the permission of the copyright holder is also illegal.

Pornography, Indecency, and Obscenity

Pornography thrives on the Internet. With millions of customers and billions of dollars transferred every year, pornography is currently one of the main drivers of e-commerce and broadband residential connections. Pornography has stimulated the development of age verification systems, credit card verification systems, and even forms of electronic currency. Today, pornography is one of the main sources of revenue ...