Ratio Decidendi
Denial-of-service attacks against electronic communications systems constitute criminal offences under the Computer Misuse Act 1990 and can be prosecuted even where the attack originates from abroad.
Facts
The defendant conducted denial-of-service attacks against UK websites, demanding payment to cease the attacks.
Judgment Summary
The Court of Appeal upheld the conviction for blackmail and computer misuse, confirming jurisdiction over cyber attacks affecting UK systems regardless of the perpetrator's location.
Key Quotes
"The courts have jurisdiction where the effects of the criminal conduct are felt within the jurisdiction."
— Rose LJ
Subsequent Treatment
Applied
Applied in subsequent cross-border cyber crime cases.