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What law protects us from hackers?
Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) is the leading federal anti-hacking legislation that prohibits unauthorized access to another’s computer system.
What is well known security txt?
txt is a proposed standard for websites’ security information that is meant to allow security researchers to easily report security vulnerabilities. The standard prescribes a text file called “security. txt” in the well known location, similar in syntax to robots.
When do security researchers have to disclose vulnerabilities?
Moreover, if the vulnerability is not fixed within 45 days, it will then be disclosed to the public. Coupled with the low legal risk, and the importance for security of vulnerability disclosure, this makes security researchers morally bound to disclose vulnerabilities.
Is it legal for hackers to report vulnerabilities?
The laws around vulnerability reports are gray at best. Some vendors have dedicated bug bounty programs which give hackers an avenue to report security vulnerabilities directly, not only to give affected companies a chance to patch the problem before threat actors learn of them but also in order to secure credit and financial rewards.
Is it safe to disclose vulnerability on HackerOne?
Finders that intend any form of public disclosure should not participate in private Programs. HackerOne recommends two alternatives: (a) Submit directly to the Security Team outside of the Program. In this situation, Finders are advised to exercise good judgement as any safe harbor afforded by the Program Policy may not be available.
Is there an exemption for vulnerability research in the US?
Both laws are vague and far-reaching, and allow for companies and the government to take legal action against vulnerability researchers, although it should be noted that in 2016 an exemption was added to the DMCA that explicitly allows for security research under certain conditions [17].