The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act: A Weapon Against Employees Who Steal Trade Secrets
The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (the “Act”) is a criminal statute that provides a civil cause of action for anyone whose computer system or network has been damaged or accessed without authorization, provided certain requirements are met. Although traditionally thought of as a form of relief for those who fall victim to computer “hackers,” the Act has seen increased use in the employer-employee context.