Sec. 1. 17 MRSA c. 84 is enacted to read:

CHAPTER 84

DAMAGES FOR INTRODUCING COMPUTER VIRUS

§2531.__Remedies

1.__Court action.__A person who suffers any loss of money or property, real or personal, as a result of the act of another person who intentionally or knowingly introduces or allows the introduction of a computer virus into any computer resource, having no reasonable ground to believe that the person has a right to do so in violation of Title 17-A, section 433, subsection 1, paragraph C may bring an action either in the Superior Court or District Court for actual treble damages, restitution and for such other equitable relief as the court determines to be necessary and proper. There is a right to trial by jury in any action brought in Superior Court under this section.

2.__Fees and costs.__A successful plaintiff in an action under this section is entitled to reasonable attorney's fees and costs incurred in connection with that action.

3.__Notices to Attorney General.__Upon commencement of any action brought under subsection 1, the clerk of courts shall mail a copy of the complaint or other initial pleading to the Attorney General and upon entry of any judgment or decree in the action, shall mail a copy of such judgment or decree to the Attorney General.

SUMMARY

The bill creates a civil remedy for a person who suffers any loss of money or property, real or personal, as a result of another person intentionally allowing or introducing a computer virus into any computer resource in violation of the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 17-A, section 433, subsection 1, paragraph C. A person who suffers damage because of the virus may bring an action either in the Superior Court or District Court for actual treble damages, restitution and for such other equitable relief. A successful plaintiff in an action also is entitled to reasonable attorney's fees and costs incurred in connection with that action.