RE: [cobalt-users] PortSentry works !

[Graeme Fowler <Graeme.F@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Christian Karlsson wrote:
> Is it really illigel to do a portscan?

[see http://www.hmso.gov.uk/acts/acts1990/Ukpga_19900018_en_1.htm ]

The UK Computer Misuse Act 1990 declares that it is an offence to carry
out:

1  Unauthorised access to computer material.  
2  Unauthorised access with intent to commit or facilitate commission of
further offences.  
3  Unauthorised modification of computer material.

A port scan more than likely falls under section 2 above; although to my
knowledge I have not yet seen any prosecutions following portscans under
the act. IANAL however, and they could have taken place on the quiet. As
far as I'm concerned the first time a script kiddie is successfully
prosecuted in the UK under the CMA, it should be big news.

Footnote: I worked for a couple of years in a university, and was
heavily involved in the security and discipline side of things, so the
Act became very pertinent for me several times; it's amazing what the
threat of legal action will do to someone who's about to complete a
degree :)

Graeme Fowler
Systems Administrator
graeme.f@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx