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[Below is the Introduction and Summary to this latest FSF Perspectives. A PDF version of the complete Perspectives, with Further Readings, is here.]
Introduction and Summary
On October 7, 2026, U.S. Senators from California and Missouri announced bipartisan legislation to combat theft and vandalism against communications infrastructure. The Combating Critical Infrastructure Vandalism Act, HB 1100, is part of broader efforts across the nation to address malicious attacks on communications networks. At the federal level, existing law criminalizes damage to communications infrastructure operated or controlled by the federal government without addressing attacks more broadly against privately owned infrastructure.
States are also responding to attacks on wireless and broadband infrastructure. Many legislative efforts focus on increasing criminal penalties in response to the substantial social and private costs of service disruptions, which can far exceed the value of stolen or damaged materials. In October 2026 Maryland’s new law took effect, making it part of a growing number of states addressing these crimes.
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