Can Phone Calls in the USA Be Monitored?

If a phone tap is implemented, a computer copies the digitized phone conversation to a second line and it is impossible to tell whether a line is being tapped. A well-designed tap installed on a phone wire can be difficult to detect.

The American Civil Liberties Union has fought the expansion of law enforcement surveillance practices of telephone and computer conversations for decades. However it has been mostly unsuccessful.

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Can Phone Calls in the USA Be Legally Monitored?

Emerging technology has raised questions about how, and under what circumstances and situations, law enforcement agencies can tap into and trace phone calls. As new and enhanced telecommunications systems develop, the debate over this issue becomes more intense.

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Are Phone Calls in the USA Monitored?

A common question people ask is if phone calls within the United States are recorded or monitored by third parties like the government or law enforcement.

The answer is YES.  The “Trap and Trace” law requires telephone companies to integrate software or hardware into their system to allow “law enforcement” instant access to any phone calls that are taking place at any time.  All phone companies were required to install this software/hardware by the end of 2006.

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