The SPY ACT (Securely Protect Yourself Against Cyber Trespass), outlaws computer technology that downloads programs onto users' computers without their permission and makes it illegal to hijack control of a user's computer, expose users to pop-up ads that can't be closed, modify a user's personal settings, and download personal information without permission. The bill was passed by 399 votes for to 1 against.
Rep. Joe Barton (R-Texas), chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce says he hopes the United States can set a standard for international spyware law that would be adopted throughout the world. However, Hong Kong's Computer Crimes Ordinance already outlaws unauthorised addition of software to computers. The main difficulty appears to be in identification of the culprits.