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Lawsuits Against Foreign States for Cyberattacks and Data Breaches

This new law allows U.S. citizens to sue foreign states for damages resulting from cyberattacks, such as data theft, computer damage, or reputational harm. This means if a foreign state or its agents cause such harm, citizens can seek compensation in U.S. courts. The law also applies to cases already pending or filed after its enactment.
Key points
Ability to Sue Foreign States: U.S. citizens can now sue foreign states for damages resulting from unauthorized computer access, data theft, or damage caused by cyberattacks.
Protection for Data and Reputation: The law covers personal injury, harm to reputation, and financial losses from cyberattacks, including unauthorized use or disclosure of information.
Accountability for Cyberattack Support: Foreign states can also be held accountable for providing material support for cyberattacks, even if they did not directly carry them out.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_1607
Sponsor: Rep. Allred, Colin Z. [D-TX-32]
Process start date: 2021-03-08
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

HACT Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_1607.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-03-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Ability to Sue Foreign States: U.S. citizens can now sue foreign states for damages resulting from unauthorized computer access, data theft, or damage caused by cyberattacks.
  • Protection for Data and Reputation: The law covers personal injury, harm to reputation, and financial losses from cyberattacks, including unauthorized use or disclosure of information.
  • Accountability for Cyberattack Support: Foreign states can also be held accountable for providing material support for cyberattacks, even if they did not directly carry them out.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Allred, Colin Z. [D-TX-32].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Security