Protecting Critical Infrastructure: Increased Penalties for Cyberattacks and Foreign Sanctions
This Act significantly increases penalties for cybercrimes targeting critical U.S. infrastructure (e.g., power grids, water systems, hospitals). Individuals convicted of such attacks face sentences up to life imprisonment. Furthermore, it mandates financial and visa sanctions against foreign persons who knowingly attempt to harm this infrastructure, aiming to enhance national security and the daily safety of citizens.
Key points
Increased Penalties: The minimum sentence for cyberattacks on critical infrastructure (e.g., public utility systems) is 30 years, with the possibility of life imprisonment.
Sanctions on Foreign Persons: The President must impose sanctions (asset blocking in the U.S., entry bans, and visa revocation) on non-U.S. persons who knowingly access critical infrastructure to harm national security or U.S. citizens.
Asset Blocking: Property and interests in property of sanctioned individuals located in or coming into the U.S. will be blocked.
Security Impact: The goal is to better protect essential services that citizens rely on daily, such as power supply, water, and communication.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_3278
Sponsor: Rep. Fallon, Pat [R-TX-4]
Process start date: 2025-05-08