South Australian Police will get more power to access encrypted or password-protected material held in the digital world, under proposed new laws.
Attorney-General Vickie Chapman says the laws will help SA keep pace with technology by compelling people to allow access to encrypted material.
"That can include the provision of passwords, fingerprints, facial scans or retinal scans, whatever enables authorities to access a device that may contain evidence of a serious offence," Ms Chapman said.
"Anyone who fails to comply with the order could face up to five years imprisonment."
The new laws are expected to be used to crack down on people who distribute or help distribute child pornography.
The legislation also includes specific offences to ensure offenders who manage or promote websites featuring child exploitation material can be prosecuted.
"The possession and distribution of child pornography is utterly vile behaviour that perpetuates the abuse of children, and those involved in this practice, or who support it, should face the full force of the law," Ms Chapman said.
"These laws ensure that people who administer or host websites that deal with this sickening material, even if they are not technically in possession of it. can be prosecuted."
