CFAA: Transformation After Tragedy

The Hastings Communications and Entertainment Law Journal, in partnership with the Hastings Science and Technology Law Journal, is proud to present a symposium on the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (“CFAA”) and efforts to reform computer trespass law. The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act: Transformation After Tragedy, will bring together legal scholars, lawyers, technologists, and activists for a series of moderated panel discussions on Friday, March 22 at UC Hastings College of the Law. After the tragic suicide of computer programmer and Internet activist Aaron Swartz during the pendency of his prosecution for violating various provisions of the CFAA, a number of stakeholders have come forward with proposals for how to reshape the law. The CFAA, which was enacted in 1984, is often viewed as antiquated and difficult to understand. Others maintain that the law serves an important purpose with respect to information security, privacy, computer crime, and intellectual property law. A number of noteworthy organizations and distinguished panelists will participate in the day-long event. Lothar Determann of Baker & McKenzie LLP will deliver a keynote speech. Panelists from UC Hastings College of the Law, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University, the Stanford Center for Internet and Society, the ACLU of Massachusetts Technology for Liberty Project, Digital Age Defense, and more will share their expertise and engage in what is sure to be a fascinating dialogue. Registration will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. MCLE credit will be offered to eligible attendees at no cost. Coffee and tea, pastries, lunch, and light refreshments will be provided during the day. Following the symposium, guests are invited to attend a reception in the McAllister Tower Skyroom. Hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine will be served. Please RSVP at cfaasymposium.eventbrite.com. The event is free and open to the public. For questions, please contact Natalie Nicol at nicoln@uchastings.edu or (415) 308-7001.