MOSCOW, July 18 (RAPSI) – The State Duma has adopted in the third and final reading a government-sponsored bill aimed at a more precise definition of special technical means designed for covert collection of information.

The bill is intended to protect Russia’s citizens from unsubstantiated accusations of spying for purchases of such devices as for instance GPS-trackers or glasses with built-in cameras. The amendments, the government says, are to ensure that special technical means for spying were set clearly apart from consumer devices.

At present the unlawful production, purchase or sale of special technical means designed for covert collection of information are criminally punishable by prison terms for up to 4 years and disqualification to hold certain positions or to engage in certain activities for up to 3 years.

The amended legislation provides more precise definition of spying devices and includes a list of gadgets, systems, tools, etc. not to be classified as special technical means for covert collection of information.

The bill also unifies the relevant legislation as to the definition of spying devices.