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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Utah was the first state last year to outlaw computer spyware programs -- but advertisers blocked it in the state courts.
Now Utah legislators are acting to strengthen the law against any court challenges.
People add spyware to their computers when they download free software or visit certain Web sites -- but they usually don't know it.
The spyware tracks their keystrokes, their Web site visits and personal information including passwords and credit card numbers.
A state judge put last year's law on hold to consider a challenge from spyware maker When-U-dot-com, which claimed it restricted interstate commerce.
Now Representative Stephen Urquhart of St. George is out with amendments that apply the spyware ban only to Utah.
The bill got out of the starting gate today with committee approval in the House.
(Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
