In which year was the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act enacted?

The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) was enacted in 1984. This legislation was established to address computer-related offenses, particularly those involving fraud and unauthorized access to computer systems. It was one of the first federal laws to address the growing concern of computer crimes, which were becoming more prevalent with the increase in computer usage and dependence.

The Act has undergone several amendments since its initial passage, reflecting the evolving nature of technology and cybercrime. The original intent was to provide law enforcement with the tools necessary to combat unauthorized access to computers and protect sensitive data, laying the groundwork for more comprehensive legislation in the years that followed. Understanding the CFAA and its historical context is crucial for anyone studying cybersecurity and ethical hacking, as it is foundational in shaping current laws and regulations that govern computer use and security.