Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986

The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986 was enacted on October 16, 1986. The law provides additional penalties for fraud and related activities in connection with access devices and computers. It amends title 18 of the United States Code to include new offenses and increase penalties for existing ones. The law defines a "Federal interest computer" and increases penalties for unauthorized access or exceeding authorized access. It also adds an exception for lawfully authorized investigative, protective, or intelligence activity.