New cybercrime law protects ethical hackers
A recent amendment to the Cybercrime Law (Lei do Cibercrime) has clarified the legal status of security researchers, effectively protecting 'ethical hackers' from criminal prosecution when testing company systems. The Public Prosecution Service (Ministério Público) has issued new practical guidelines to assist magistrates in applying these rules, which have been in effect since April.
The Ministério Público (Public Prosecution Service) is Portugal's independent state prosecution body, responsible for leading criminal investigations, bringing charges, and representing the public interest in court.
The MP operates autonomously from the government and the police, though it directs criminal investigations carried out by the Polícia Judiciária, PSP, and GNR. It is led by the Procurador-Geral da República (Attorney General), who is appointed by the President on the government's proposal.
The MP gets involved in high-profile cases including corruption, financial crime, and incidents of potential institutional negligence. It also defends the legality of government actions and protects citizens' fundamental rights through the courts.
