Is the FBI reading your emails without a Warrant

12 May 2013

Recent information leads us to believe that FBI read emails and other electronic communication without a warrant.  Federal law enforcement agencies reinforce the urgent need for protection of privacy.

In 2010 it was decided that the government must obtain a probable cause warrant prior to compelling email providers to turn over messages.  A loophole in the privacy act allows access to some electronic communication without a warrant.  It is suggested that the FBI only need a warrant for emails and other electronic communication that are unopened and less that 180 days old.

The information collected show that federal policy around access to the contents of electronic communication is in disarray.  Policies require amendment and clarity is needed around whether warrants should be required across the board.

Gizmodo:

http://gizmodo.com/fbi-documents-suggest-that-feds-read-your-emails-withou-496627031