Broadband Service Providers Face Wiretapping Deadline


Broadband service providers have until May 14 to upgrade their networks so law enforcement agencies can wiretap their IP networks for voice and data communications.

The Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act was enacted in 1994 and already requires phone companies to have such capabilities. The Federal Communications Commission ruled in 2005 that broadband and VoIP providers must be able to facilitate wiretaps used by intelligence authorities to allow old practices to be applied to newer technology.


Earlier this year, providers were required to file plans for accommodating such requests. Since the plans directly relate to law enforcement investigations, the FCC didn't make them public.