Missouri 2026 Regular Session

Missouri House Bill HB2862

Introduced
1/7/26  
Refer
1/22/26  

Caption

Prohibits digital impersonation of a person and provides for injunctive relief

Impact

If enacted, HB 2862 would introduce new legal standards for identifying and addressing cases of digital impersonation. The new provisions would likely require individuals and entities to adhere to stricter regulations to avoid engaging in or enabling such activities. By legalizing injunctive relief, victims would have the opportunity to seek court orders to stop the impersonation and potentially recover damages, which marks a significant step forward in the protection of personal identities online and enhances overall cybersecurity measures within the state.

Summary

House Bill 2862 focuses on the issue of digital impersonation, explicitly prohibiting the act of impersonating another individual online. This legislation is a response to the growing concerns surrounding identity theft and other malicious online practices that exploit individual identities for fraudulent purposes. The bill outlines specific provisions to prevent such impersonation and establishes mechanisms for victims to seek injunctive relief in order to mitigate the harm caused by these acts.

Contention

While the bill aims to strengthen protections against digital impersonation, discussions surrounding its introduction have revealed points of contention. Critics argue that the definition of digital impersonation may be overly broad, potentially leading to unintended consequences where legitimate online expression could be stifled. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the enforcement of these provisions and how they would interact with existing laws governing digital communication and online conduct. Proponents of the bill emphasize the necessity for robust protections to counter the increasing threat of identity theft in the digital age.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO SB411

Establishes provisions relating to the civil and criminal liability of disclosure of intimate digital depictions

MO SB604

Creates the offense of disclosure of an intimate digital depiction

MO SB309

Creates new provisions relating to digital assets

MO HB1136

Establishes the "Digital Assets Authorization Act"

MO SB277

Modifies provisions relating to the protection of vulnerable persons

MO SB614

Creates new provisions relating to digital assets

MO SB117

Establishes the Vulnerable Child Compassion and Protection Act prohibiting discussion of certain topics by school personnel

MO SB60

Modifies provisions relating to the protection of vulnerable persons

MO SB285

Prohibits certain mental health professionals from engaging in conversion therapy for minors

MO HB94

Prohibits persons from carrying firearms into parade zones

Similar Bills

TX HB783

Relating to civil liability for online impersonation.

NJ A4422

The "Digital Impersonation Prevention Act."

CA AB469

Crimes: impersonation of first responders.

HI SB3055

Relating To False Impersonation Of Union Representatives.

AZ HB2030

Impersonation; veteran; armed forces

DE HB152

An Act To Amend Title 11 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Criminal Impersonation.

DE HB326

An Act To Amend Title 11 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Theft By Impersonation Of A Family Member.

MI HB5038

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for false representation regarding assisted reproduction; provide for. Amends sec. 16l, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.16l). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5036'25