摘要
The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (often called the 'Snoopers' Charter') provides a comprehensive legal framework for surveillance and interception of communications by intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and other public bodies. It consolidated and replaced previous legislation including RIPA 2000. The Act authorises bulk data collection, equipment interference (hacking), and requires communications providers to retain internet connection records.
要点
- Interception of communications — Warrants may be issued for targeted or bulk interception of communications (Parts 2 and 6)
- Communications data — Authorities may obtain data about communications (who, when, where) as distinct from content (Part 3)
- Internet connection records — Communications providers must retain records of websites visited for 12 months (s.87)
- Equipment interference — Legal framework for hacking by intelligence agencies and law enforcement (Part 5)
- Bulk powers — Intelligence agencies may undertake bulk interception, acquisition, and equipment interference (Parts 6–7)
- Judicial Commissioners — Independent judicial oversight of warrants, replacing the previous system of ministerial authorisation alone
- Investigatory Powers Commissioner — Oversight body replacing the Intelligence Services Commissioner and Interception of Communications Commissioner