"Spyware exports will need a licence under new EU rules", 6 Nov 2014

Companies which make spyware will have to apply for permission to export the software once new EU regulations come into effect in late December. Officially referred to as “intrusion software”, the software will now be included on the EU’s list of “dual use” items, defined as “goods, software and technology normally used for civilian purposes but which might have military applications or contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.” The restriction means that companies will have to apply for a licence to export spyware...While the regulation is implemented by the European commission, the British government supports the restriction of spyware. “The UK has made it clear over the last two years that we believe that while these kind of technologies do have legitimate uses, they also pose threats to national security and to human rights and should be subject to export controls,” said a spokesperson for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.