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Research and proper Internet ethics 1

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powahusr

Technical User
Jan 22, 2001
240
US
Greetings,

I thought that this would be an interesting topic to discuss in this forum, since there can always be a misunderstanding.

I am looking to build on my Malware removal skills, I found a few posts in this forum that specified some resources such as web sites and downloads that are known to install Malware on your system when visited.

Obviously, my sole purpose for visiting these sites is to load my “Test System” up with Malware, so I can work on new techniques to “Clean” a system. However, If I do happen to stumble upon a web site that is of “Questionable” nature and I am “flagged” or something like that, how do I explain that one if someone is to make an inquiry?

Let it be known, I try to avoid sites with “Questionable and Inappropriate” content, I only target sites like Gator, 1800search, hotbar, etc… but sometimes you never know what that URL will load in your browser or redirect you to when what you are only looking to do is infect your “Test” system with Malware and Viruses.

As Technicians, are we protected in anyway from lawful action under the aforementioned circumstances, when your motive is of only good intention? Is there a procedure that must be followed to “legitimize” such a situation, to protect ourselves from legal action?

As good as my intentions are, I still feel like I should look into this.

What are your thoughts?

Thanks in Advance!
 
The first point of contact would be the police and arrange a meeting with someone with expertise in this area. Explain what you are doing and ask them to help you with advice on the legal side. After all if you end up on a dodgy site and you've contacted the Police and they didn't help, I'm sure this would swing in your favour.
Most law enforcement also take a sensible approach. If you stumble on a page, go oops, then close it, even the 600 pop ups after, you'll most likely be ok. HOWEVER if you decide to have a good look around that site, then that will be a different matter.

Stu..

Only the truly stupid believe they know everything.
Stu.. 2004
 
Thank you very much for your advice, I think that would be the best course to take.
 
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