In response to a “major cyberattack” that crippled government IT services last September, Bermuda’s Parliament has enacted stringent legislation to combat cyber crimes. Under the new laws, individuals convicted of offences posing “a significant risk of serious damage to human welfare or national security” could face life imprisonment and fines of up to $1 million. National Security Minister Michael Weeks emphasized the necessity of the Computer Misuse Act 2024, noting that existing laws were inadequate in addressing contemporary cyber threats.
Weeks highlighted the challenges faced in prosecuting cyber crimes under outdated legislation, with only two cases prosecuted over the past five years. The amendments seek to empower law enforcement and the Department of Public Prosecutions to investigate and prosecute computer-related offences effectively. Offences covered under the new legislation include unauthorized access to computer material, acts causing serious damage, and supplying articles to facilitate computer crime.
The legislation underscores Bermuda’s commitment to bolstering its cybersecurity framework in the face of evolving cyber threats. Opposition Leader Jarion Richardson stressed the importance of keeping pace with technological advancements, acknowledging the potential for irreparable damage by malicious actors. Meanwhile, the government is also poised to introduce the Cybersecurity Act 2024, aiming to establish a Cybersecurity Advisory Board and National Cybersecurity Unit to further fortify the island’s defenses against cyber threats.
