Legislation agains internet spyware has moved a step closer in the U.S.

The House of Representatives voted for new penalties against distributors or the the spyware, used to monitor Internet user's activities.

Criminals who steal credit card numbers and other nefarious activities face increased jail terms and/or fines of millions of dollars.

Spyware can be used for a huge range of activities most of which centre on identity. Passwords, user names and account numbers can all be collected. Once in the hands of the criminal they can be used to steal identities.

Prohibited activities include:-

 *reprogramming a user's home page
 *pop-up ads that can not be closed without turning off the PC
 *installing key-loggers
 *Anti-phishing measures are also included.

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