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LIFE FOR HACKERS

Computer hackers in the US could be jailed for life under a new act passed by the House of Representatives last week. The sentence would be given to hackers convicted of “knowingly” causing or attempting to cause death or serious injury. Advocates worry that hackers could commit terrorist acts by making computer systems open dams and so trigger floods, for example. The stiff sentences are part of a general overhaul of US computer security laws, but the Senate will have to approve the act before it becomes law.

GENE CRACKDOWN

Biotech patents are being handed out far…

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