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type="submit" onclick="return redirectMe();" class="btn btn-primary">Go!</button> </form> <h1 class="title" id="page_title"> 18 U.S. Code § 2510 - Definitions </h1> <div class="tabbable-panel"> <div class="tabbable-line"> <ul class="nav nav-tabs "> <li class="active"> <a data-toggle="tab" href="#tab_default_1"> U.S. Code </a> </li> <li> <a data-toggle="tab" href="#tab_default_2"> Notes </a> </li> </ul> <div class="tab-content"> <div id="prevnext"> prev | <a href="/uscode/text/18/2511" title=" Interception and disclosure of wire, oral, or electronic communications prohibited">next</a> </div> <div class="tab-pane active" id="tab_default_1">  <text><div class="text"> <div class="section"> <span class="chapeau indent0">As used in this chapter—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="1"></a><span class="num" value="1">(1)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - wire communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1510336379-1414135158&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">wire communication</a>” means any<a aria-label="Definitions - aural transfer " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1385238210-888516882&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> aural transfer </a>made in whole or in part through the use of facilities for the transmission of communications by the aid of wire, cable, or other like connection between the point of origin and the point of reception (including the use of such connection in a switching station) furnished or operated by any<a aria-label="Definitions - person " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> person </a>engaged in providing or operating such facilities for the transmission of interstate or foreign communications or communications affecting interstate or foreign commerce;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="2"></a><span class="num" value="2">(2)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - oral communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">oral communication</a>” means any <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">oral communication</a> uttered by a<a aria-label="Definitions - person " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> person </a>exhibiting an expectation that such communication is not subject to interception under circumstances justifying such expectation, but such term does not include any <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=">electronic communication</a>;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="3"></a><span class="num" value="3">(3)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - State" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=">State</a>” means any <a aria-label="Definitions - State" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=">State</a> of the United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a>, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto <a href="/topn/racketeer_influenced_and_corrupt_organizations_act_rico">Rico</a>, and any territory or possession of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States;" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> States;</a></div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="4"></a><span class="num" value="4">(4)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - intercept" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-502538434-1414135155&term_occur=999&term_src=">intercept</a>” means the aural or other acquisition of the contents of any wire, electronic, or <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">oral communication</a> through the use of any <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic, mechanical, or other device" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1383117104-1414135154&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic, mechanical, or other device</a>.<a class="footnoteRef" href="#fn002204" id="fn002204-ref" name="fn002204-ref">[1]</a></div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="5"></a><span class="num" value="5">(5)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic, mechanical, or other device" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1383117104-1414135154&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic, mechanical, or other device</a>” means any device or apparatus which can be used to<a aria-label="Definitions - intercept " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-502538434-1414135155&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> intercept </a>a wire, oral, or<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> electronic communication </a>other than—</span> <div class="level indent2"><span class="num" value="a">(a)</span> <div class="content"> any telephone or telegraph instrument, equipment or facility, or any component thereof, (i) furnished to the subscriber or <a aria-label="Definitions - user" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-3599307-888516887&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">user</a> by a provider of wire or <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication service" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051202503-888516885&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communication service</a> in the ordinary course of its business and being used by the subscriber or<a aria-label="Definitions - user " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-3599307-888516887&term_occur=999&term_src="> user </a>in the ordinary course of its business or furnished by such subscriber or<a aria-label="Definitions - user " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-3599307-888516887&term_occur=999&term_src="> user </a>for connection to the facilities of such service and used in the ordinary course of its business; or (ii) being used by a provider of wire or <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication service" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051202503-888516885&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communication service</a> in the ordinary course of its business, or by an <a aria-label="Definitions - investigative or law enforcement officer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-103462967-1414135152&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">investigative or law enforcement officer</a> in the ordinary course of his duties;</div> </div> <div class="level indent2"><span class="num" value="b">(b)</span> <div class="content"> a hearing aid or similar device being used to correct subnormal hearing to not better than normal;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="6"></a><span class="num" value="6">(6)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">person</a>” means any employee, or agent of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>or any<a aria-label="Definitions - State " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> State </a>or political subdivision thereof, and any individual, partnership, association, joint stock company, trust, or corporation;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="7"></a><span class="num" value="7">(7)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - Investigative or law enforcement officer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-103462967-1414135152&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">Investigative or law enforcement officer</a>” means any officer of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>or of a<a aria-label="Definitions - State " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> State </a>or political subdivision thereof, who is empowered by law to conduct investigations of or to make arrests for offenses enumerated in this chapter, and any attorney authorized by law to prosecute or participate in the prosecution of such offenses;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="8"></a><span class="num" value="8">(8)</span> <div class="content"> “contents”, when used with respect to any wire, oral, or <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=">electronic communication</a>, includes any information concerning the substance, purport, or meaning of that communication;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="9"></a><span class="num" value="9">(9)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - Judge of competent jurisdiction" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-267091220-1414135150&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">Judge of competent jurisdiction</a>” means—</span> <div class="level indent2"><span class="num" value="a">(a)</span> <div class="content"> a judge of a United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a> district court or a United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a> court of appeals; and</div> </div> <div class="level indent2"><span class="num" value="b">(b)</span> <div class="content"> a judge of any court of general criminal jurisdiction of a <a aria-label="Definitions - State" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=">State</a> who is authorized by a statute of that <a aria-label="Definitions - State" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=">State</a> to enter orders authorizing interceptions of wire, oral, or <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communications" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communications</a>;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="10"></a><span class="num" value="10">(10)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - communication common carrier" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-205691725-888516890&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">communication common carrier</a>” has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the <a href="/topn/communications_act_of_1934">Communications Act of 1934</a>;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="11"></a><span class="num" value="11">(11)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - aggrieved person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1431066003-888516889&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">aggrieved person</a>” means a<a aria-label="Definitions - person " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> person </a>who was a party to any intercepted wire, oral, or <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=">electronic communication</a> or a<a aria-label="Definitions - person " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> person </a>against whom the interception was directed;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="12"></a><span class="num" value="12">(12)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=">electronic communication</a>” means any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectronic or photooptical system that affects interstate or foreign commerce, but does not include—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="12_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> any wire or <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">oral communication</a>;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="12_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> any communication made through a tone-only paging device;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="12_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> any communication from a tracking device (as defined in <a href="/uscode/text/18/3117">section 3117 of this title</a>); or</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="12_D"></a><span class="num" value="D">(D)</span> <div class="content"> electronic funds transfer information stored by a financial institution in a communications system used for the <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic storage" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1194226903-888516883&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic storage</a> and transfer of funds;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="13"></a><span class="num" value="13">(13)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - user" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-3599307-888516887&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">user</a>” means any <a aria-label="Definitions - person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">person</a> or entity who—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="13_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> uses an <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication service" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051202503-888516885&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communication service</a>; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="13_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> is duly authorized by the provider of such service to engage in such use;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="14"></a><span class="num" value="14">(14)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communications system" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-434404782-888516886&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communications system</a>” means any wire, radio, electromagnetic, photooptical or photoelectronic facilities for the transmission of wire or<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communications," class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> electronic communications,</a> and any computer facilities or related electronic equipment for the<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic storage " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1194226903-888516883&term_occur=999&term_src="> electronic storage </a>of such communications;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="15"></a><span class="num" value="15">(15)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication service" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051202503-888516885&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communication service</a>” means any service which provides to<a aria-label="Definitions - users " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-3599307-888516887&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> users </a>thereof the ability to send or receive wire or<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communications;" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510"> electronic communications;</a></div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="16"></a><span class="num" value="16">(16)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - readily accessible to the general public" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1693073099-888516884&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">readily accessible to the general public</a>” means, with respect to a radio communication, that such communication is not—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="16_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> scrambled or encrypted;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="16_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> transmitted using modulation techniques whose essential parameters have been withheld from the public with the intention of preserving the privacy of such communication;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="16_C"></a><span class="num" value="C">(C)</span> <div class="content"> carried on a subcarrier or other signal subsidiary to a radio transmission;</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="16_D"></a><span class="num" value="D">(D)</span> <div class="content"> transmitted over a communication system provided by a common carrier, unless the communication is a tone only paging system communication; or</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="16_E"></a><span class="num" value="E">(E)</span> <div class="content"> transmitted on frequencies allocated under part 25, subpart D, E, or F of part 74, or part 94 of the Rules of the <span link="https://liicornell.org/liifedent/federal_communications_commission" occur="1" src="named_federal_agencies">Federal Communications Commission</span>, unless, in the case of a communication transmitted on a frequency allocated under part 74 that is not exclusively allocated to broadcast auxiliary services, the communication is a two-way voice communication by radio;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="17"></a><span class="num" value="17">(17)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic storage" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1194226903-888516883&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic storage</a>” means—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="17_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> any temporary, intermediate storage of a wire or <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=">electronic communication</a> incidental to the electronic transmission thereof; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="17_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> any storage of such communication by an <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication service" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051202503-888516885&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">electronic communication service</a> for purposes of backup protection of such communication;</div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="18"></a><span class="num" value="18">(18)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - aural transfer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1385238210-888516882&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">aural transfer</a>” means a transfer containing the human voice at any point between and including the point of origin and the point of reception;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="19"></a><span class="num" value="19">(19)</span><span class="chapeau"> “foreign intelligence information”, for purposes of <a href="/uscode/text/18/2517#6">section 2517(6) of this title</a>, means—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="19_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span><span class="chapeau"> information, whether or not concerning a United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a> <a aria-label="Definitions - person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">person</a>, that relates to the ability of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>to protect against—</span> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="19_A_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> actual or potential attack or other grave hostile acts of a foreign power or an agent of a foreign power;</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="19_A_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> sabotage or international terrorism by a foreign power or an agent of a foreign power; or</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="19_A_iii"></a><span class="num" value="iii">(iii)</span> <div class="content"> clandestine intelligence activities by an intelligence service or network of a foreign power or by an agent of a foreign power; or</div> </div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="19_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span><span class="chapeau"> information, whether or not concerning a United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a> <a aria-label="Definitions - person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">person</a>, with respect to a foreign power or foreign territory that relates to—</span> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="19_B_i"></a><span class="num" value="i">(i)</span> <div class="content"> the national defense or the security of the United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a>; or</div> </div> <div class="clause indent3"><a name="19_B_ii"></a><span class="num" value="ii">(ii)</span> <div class="content"> the conduct of the foreign affairs of the United <a aria-label="Definitions - States" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">States</a>;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="20"></a><span class="num" value="20">(20)</span> <div class="content"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - protected computer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-695191731-888516859&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">protected computer</a>” has the meaning set forth in section 1030; and</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><a name="21"></a><span class="num" value="21">(21)</span><span class="chapeau"> “<a aria-label="Definitions - computer trespasser" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1792828081-888516858&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">computer trespasser</a>”—</span> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="21_A"></a><span class="num" value="A">(A)</span> <div class="content"> means a <a aria-label="Definitions - person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">person</a> who accesses a <a aria-label="Definitions - protected computer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-695191731-888516859&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">protected computer</a> without authorization and thus has no reasonable expectation of privacy in any communication transmitted to, through, or from the <a aria-label="Definitions - protected computer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-695191731-888516859&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">protected computer</a>; and</div> </div> <div class="subparagraph indent2"><a name="21_B"></a><span class="num" value="B">(B)</span> <div class="content"> does not include a <a aria-label="Definitions - person" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">person</a> known by the owner or operator of the <a aria-label="Definitions - protected computer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-695191731-888516859&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">protected computer</a> to have an existing contractual relationship with the owner or operator of the <a aria-label="Definitions - protected computer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-695191731-888516859&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">protected computer</a> for access to all or part of the <a aria-label="Definitions - protected computer" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-695191731-888516859&term_occur=999&term_src=title:18:part:I:chapter:119:section:2510">protected computer</a>.</div> </div> </div> <div class="sourceCredit">(Added <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._90-351">Pub. L. 90–351, title III, § 802</a>, <span class="date" date="1968-06-19">June 19, 1968</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/82_Stat._212">82 Stat. 212</a>; amended <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, title I, § 101(a)</a>, (c)(1)(A), (4), <span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/100_Stat._1848">100 Stat. 1848</a>, 1851; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._103-414">Pub. L. 103–414, title II</a>, §§ 202(a), 203, <span class="date" date="1994-10-25">Oct. 25, 1994</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/108_Stat._4290">108 Stat. 4290</a>, 4291; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._104-132">Pub. L. 104–132, title VII, § 731</a>, <span class="date" date="1996-04-24">Apr. 24, 1996</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/110_Stat._1303">110 Stat. 1303</a>; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56, title II</a>, §§ 203(b)(2), 209(1), 217(1), <span class="date" date="2001-10-26">Oct. 26, 2001</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/115_Stat._280">115 Stat. 280</a>, 283, 290; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-108">Pub. L. 107–108, title III, § 314(b)</a>, <span class="date" date="2001-12-28">Dec. 28, 2001</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/115_Stat._1402">115 Stat. 1402</a>; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-273">Pub. L. 107–273, div. B, title IV, § 4002(e)(10)</a>, <span class="date" date="2002-11-02">Nov. 2, 2002</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/116_Stat._1810">116 Stat. 1810</a>.)</div> </div> </div></text> </div> <div class="tab-pane" id="tab_default_2">  <notes><div class="notes"> <hr class="footsep"/><br/><a class="footnote" href="#fn002204-ref" id="fn002204" name="fn002204">[1] </a><span class="footnote"> So in original. The period probably should be a semicolon.</span><br/></div><div class="notes"> <div class="note" topic="editorialNotes"><span class="heading centered"><strong>Editorial Notes</strong></span></div> <div class="note" topic="referencesInText"> <span class="heading centered smallCaps">References in Text</span> <p>Section 3 of the <a href="/topn/communications_act_of_1934">Communications Act of 1934</a>, referred to in par. (10), is classified to <a href="/uscode/text/47/153">section 153 of Title 47</a>, Telecommunications.</p> </div> <div class="note" topic="amendments"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Amendments</span> <p>2002—Par. (10). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-273">Pub. L. 107–273</a> substituted “has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the <a href="/topn/communications_act_of_1934">Communications Act of 1934</a>;” for “shall have the same meaning which is given the term ‘common carrier’ by <a href="/uscode/text/47/153#h">section 153(h) of title 47</a> of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>Code;”.</p> <p>2001—Par. (1). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56, § 209(1)(A)</a>, struck out “and such term includes any<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic storage " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1194226903-888516883&term_occur=999&term_src="> electronic storage </a>of such communication” before semicolon at end.</p> <p>Par. (14). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56, § 209(1)(B)</a>, inserted “wire or” after “transmission of”.</p> <p>Par. (19). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-108">Pub. L. 107–108</a> inserted “, for purposes of <a href="/uscode/text/18/2517#6">section 2517(6) of this title</a>,” before “means” in introductory provisions.</p> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56, § 203(b)(2)</a>, added par. (19).</p> <p>Pars. (20), (21). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56, § 217(1)</a>, added pars. (20) and (21).</p> <p>1996—Par. (12)(D). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._104-132">Pub. L. 104–132, § 731(1)</a>, added subpar. (D).</p> <p>Par. (16)(F). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._104-132">Pub. L. 104–132, § 731(2)</a>, struck out subpar. (F) which read as follows: “an<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication;" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src="> electronic communication;</a>”.</p> <p>1994—Par. (1). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._103-414">Pub. L. 103–414, § 202(a)(1)</a>, struck out before semicolon at end “, but such term does not include the radio portion of a cordless telephone communication that is transmitted between the cordless telephone handset and the base unit”.</p> <p>Par. (12). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._103-414">Pub. L. 103–414, § 202(a)(2)</a>, redesignated subpars. (B) to (D) as (A) to (C), respectively, and struck out former subpar. (A) which read as follows: “the radio portion of a cordless telephone communication that is transmitted between the cordless telephone handset and the base unit;”.</p> <p>Par. (16)(F). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._103-414">Pub. L. 103–414, § 203</a>, added subpar. (F).</p> <p>1986—Par. (1). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(a)(1)</a>, substituted “any<a aria-label="Definitions - aural transfer”" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1385238210-888516882&term_occur=999&term_src="> aural transfer”</a> for “any communication”, inserted “(including the use of such connection in a switching station)” after “reception”, struck out “as a common carrier” after <a aria-label="Definitions - “person " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=">“person </a>engaged”, and inserted “or communications affecting interstate or foreign commerce and such term includes any<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic storage " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1194226903-888516883&term_occur=999&term_src="> electronic storage </a>of such communication, but such term does not include the radio portion of a cordless telephone communication that is transmitted between the cordless telephone handset and the base unit” before the semicolon at end.</p> <p>Par. (2). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(a)(2)</a>, inserted “, but such term does not include any<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication”" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src="> electronic communication”</a> before the semicolon at end.</p> <p>Par. (4). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(a)(3)</a>, inserted “or other” after “aural” and “, electronic,” after “wire”.</p> <p>Par. (5). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(a)(4)</a>, (c)(1)(A), (4), substituted “wire, oral, or electronic” for “wire or oral” in introductory provisions, substituted “provider of wire or<a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication service”" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051202503-888516885&term_occur=999&term_src="> electronic communication service”</a> for “communications common carrier” in subpars. (a)(i) and (ii), and inserted “or furnished by such subscriber or<a aria-label="Definitions - user " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-3599307-888516887&term_occur=999&term_src="> user </a>for connection to the facilities of such service and used in the ordinary course of its business” before the semicolon in subpar. (a)(i).</p> <p>Par. (8). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(a)(5)</a>, (c)(1)(A), substituted “wire, oral, or electronic” for “wire or oral” and struck out “identity of the parties to such communication or the existence,” after “concerning the”.</p> <p>Pars. (9)(b), (11). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(c)(1)(A)</a>, substituted “wire, oral, or electronic” for “wire or oral”.</p> <p>Pars. (12) to (18). <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 101(a)(6)</a>, added pars. (12) to (18).</p> </div> <div class="note" topic="statutoryNotes"><span class="heading centered"><strong>Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries</strong></span></div> <div class="note" topic="terminationDate"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Termination Date of 2001 Amendment</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56, title II, § 224</a>, <span class="date" date="2001-10-26">Oct. 26, 2001</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/115_Stat._295">115 Stat. 295</a>, as amended by <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._109-160">Pub. L. 109–160, § 1</a>, <span class="date" date="2005-12-30">Dec. 30, 2005</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/119_Stat._2957">119 Stat. 2957</a>; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._109-170">Pub. L. 109–170, § 1</a>, <span class="date" date="2006-02-03">Feb. 3, 2006</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/120_Stat._3">120 Stat. 3</a>, which provided that title II of <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._107-56">Pub. L. 107–56</a> and the amendments made by that title would cease to have effect on <span class="date" date="2006-03-10">Mar. 10, 2006</span>, with certain exceptions, was repealed by <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._109-177">Pub. L. 109–177, title I, § 102(a)</a>, <span class="date" date="2006-03-09">Mar. 9, 2006</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/120_Stat._194">120 Stat. 194</a>.</p> </div> <div class="note" topic="effectiveDateOfAmendment"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Effective Date of 1986 Amendment</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, title I, § 111</a>, <span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/100_Stat._1859">100 Stat. 1859</a>, provided that:</p><div class="quotedContent" origin="/us/pl/99/508/tI/s111"> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="a">“(a)</span><span class="heading"> In General.—</span> <div class="content">Except as provided in subsection (b) or (c), this title and the amendments made by this title [enacting sections <a aria-label="18 USC 2521" href="/uscode/text/18/2521">2521</a> and <a aria-label="18 USC 3117" href="/uscode/text/18/3117">3117</a> of this title, amending this section and sections <a aria-label="18 USC 2232" href="/uscode/text/18/2232">2232</a>, <a aria-label="18 USC 2511" href="/uscode/text/18/2511">2511</a> to <a aria-label="18 USC 2513" href="/uscode/text/18/2513">2513</a>, and <a aria-label="18 USC 2516" href="/uscode/text/18/2516">2516</a> to <a aria-label="18 USC 2520" href="/uscode/text/18/2520">2520</a> of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section] shall take effect 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [<span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>] and shall, in the case of conduct pursuant to a court order or extension, apply only with respect to court orders or extensions made after this title takes effect.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="b">“(b)</span><span class="heading"> Special Rule for State Authorizations of Interceptions.—</span><span class="chapeau">Any interception pursuant to <a href="/uscode/text/18/2516#2">section 2516(2) of title 18</a> of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>Code which would be valid and lawful without regard to the amendments made by this title shall be valid and lawful notwithstanding such amendments if such interception occurs during the period beginning on the date such amendments take effect and ending on the earlier of—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><span class="num" value="1">“(1)</span> <div class="content"> the day before the date of the taking effect of <a aria-label="Definitions - State" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=">State</a> law conforming the applicable <a aria-label="Definitions - State" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src=">State</a> statute with <a aria-label="18 USC chapter 119" href="/uscode/text/18/chapter-119">chapter 119</a> of title 18, United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>Code, as so amended; or</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><span class="num" value="2">“(2)</span> <div class="content"> the date two years after the date of the enactment of this Act [<span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>].</div> </div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="c">“(c)</span><span class="heading"> Effective Date for Certain Approvals by Justice Department Officials.—</span> <div class="content">Section 104 of this Act [amending <a href="/uscode/text/18/2516">section 2516 of this title</a>] shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act [<span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>].”</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="note" topic="shortTitleOfAmendment"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Short Title of 1997 Amendment</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._105-112">Pub. L. 105–112, § 1</a>, <span class="date" date="1997-11-21">Nov. 21, 1997</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/111_Stat._2273">111 Stat. 2273</a>, provided that: </p><div class="quotedContent" origin="/us/pl/105/112/s1">“This Act [amending <a href="/uscode/text/18/2512">section 2512 of this title</a>] may be cited as the ‘Law Enforcement Technology Advertisement Clarification Act of 1997’.”</div> </div> <div class="note" topic="shortTitleOfAmendment"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Short Title of 1986 Amendment</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, § 1</a>, <span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/100_Stat._1848">100 Stat. 1848</a>, provided that: </p><div class="quotedContent" origin="/us/pl/99/508/s1">“This Act [enacting sections <a aria-label="18 USC 1367" href="/uscode/text/18/1367">1367</a>, <a aria-label="18 USC 2521" href="/uscode/text/18/2521">2521</a>, <a aria-label="18 USC 2701" href="/uscode/text/18/2701">2701</a> to <a aria-label="18 USC 2710" href="/uscode/text/18/2710">2710</a>, <a aria-label="18 USC 3117" href="/uscode/text/18/3117">3117</a>, and <a aria-label="18 USC 3121" href="/uscode/text/18/3121">3121</a> to <a aria-label="18 USC 3126" href="/uscode/text/18/3126">3126</a> of this title, amending sections <a aria-label="18 USC 2232" href="/uscode/text/18/2232">2232</a>, <a aria-label="18 USC 2511" href="/uscode/text/18/2511">2511</a> to <a aria-label="18 USC 2513" href="/uscode/text/18/2513">2513</a>, and <a aria-label="18 USC 2516" href="/uscode/text/18/2516">2516</a> to <a aria-label="18 USC 2520" href="/uscode/text/18/2520">2520</a> of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections <a aria-label="18 USC 2701" href="/uscode/text/18/2701">2701</a> and <a aria-label="18 USC 3121" href="/uscode/text/18/3121">3121</a> of this title] may be cited as the ‘<a href="/topn/electronic_communications_privacy_act_of_1986">Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986</a>’.”</div> </div> <div class="note" topic="miscellaneous"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Intelligence Activities</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._99-508">Pub. L. 99–508, title I, § 107</a>, <span class="date" date="1986-10-21">Oct. 21, 1986</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/100_Stat._1858">100 Stat. 1858</a>, provided that:</p><div class="quotedContent" origin="/us/pl/99/508/tI/s107"> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="a">“(a)</span><span class="heading"> In General.—</span> <div class="content">Nothing in this Act or the amendments made by this Act [see Short Title of 1986 Amendment note above] constitutes authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="b">“(b)</span><span class="heading"> Certain Activities Under Procedures Approved by the Attorney General.—</span><span class="chapeau">Nothing in chapter 119 or <a aria-label="18 USC chapter 121" href="/uscode/text/18/chapter-121">chapter 121</a> of title 18, United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>Code, shall affect the conduct, by officers or employees of the United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>Government in accordance with other applicable Federal law, under procedures approved by the Attorney General of activities intended to—</span> <div class="paragraph indent1"><span class="num" value="1">“(1)</span> <div class="content"> <a aria-label="Definitions - intercept" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-502538434-1414135155&term_occur=999&term_src=">intercept</a> encrypted or other official communications of United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>executive branch entities or United<a aria-label="Definitions - States " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> States </a>Government contractors for communications security purposes;</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><span class="num" value="2">“(2)</span> <div class="content"> <a aria-label="Definitions - intercept" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-502538434-1414135155&term_occur=999&term_src=">intercept</a> radio communications transmitted between or among foreign powers or agents of a foreign power as defined by the <a href="/topn/foreign_intelligence_surveillance_act_of_1978">Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978</a> [<a aria-label="50 U.S.C. 1801" href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/50/1801">50 U.S.C. 1801</a> et seq.]; or</div> </div> <div class="paragraph indent1"><span class="num" value="3">“(3)</span> <div class="content"> access an <a aria-label="Definitions - electronic communication" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1570295090-888516888&term_occur=999&term_src=">electronic communication</a> system used exclusively by a foreign power or agent of a foreign power as defined by the <a href="/topn/foreign_intelligence_surveillance_act_of_1978">Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978</a>.”</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="note" topic="miscellaneous"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">Congressional Findings</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._90-351">Pub. L. 90–351, title III, § 801</a>, <span class="date" date="1968-06-19">June 19, 1968</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/82_Stat._211">82 Stat. 211</a>, provided that: </p><div class="quotedContent" origin="/us/pl/90/351/tIII/s801"> <span class="inline">“On the basis of its own investigations and of published studies, the <span link="https://liicornell.org/liifedent/congress" occur="1" src="named_federal_agencies">Congress</span> makes the following findings:</span> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="a">“(a)</span> <div class="content"> <a aria-label="Definitions - Wire communications" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-1510336379-1414135158&term_occur=999&term_src=">Wire communications</a> are normally conducted through the use of facilities which form part of an interstate network. The same facilities are used for interstate and intrastate communications. There has been extensive wiretapping carried on without legal sanctions, and without the consent of any of the parties to the conversation. Electronic, mechanical, and other intercepting devices are being used to overhear oral conversations made in private, without the consent of any of the parties to such communications. The contents of these communications and evidence derived therefrom are being used by public and private parties as evidence in court and administrative proceedings, and by<a aria-label="Definitions - persons " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src="> persons </a>whose activities affect interstate commerce. The possession, manufacture, distribution, advertising, and use of these devices are facilitated by interstate commerce.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="b">“(b)</span> <div class="content"> In order to protect effectively the privacy of wire and <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communications" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=">oral communications</a>, to protect the integrity of court and administrative proceedings, and to prevent the obstruction of interstate commerce, it is necessary for <span link="https://liicornell.org/liifedent/congress" occur="2" src="named_federal_agencies">Congress</span> to define on a uniform basis the circumstances and conditions under which the interception of wire and<a aria-label="Definitions - oral communications " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src="> oral communications </a>may be authorized, to prohibit any unauthorized interception of such communications, and the use of the contents thereof in evidence in courts and administrative proceedings.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="c">“(c)</span> <div class="content"> Organized criminals make extensive use of wire and <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communications" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=">oral communications</a> in their criminal activities. The interception of such communications to obtain evidence of the commission of crimes or to prevent their commission is an indispensable aid to law enforcement and the administration of justice.</div> </div> <div class="subsection indent0"><span class="num" value="d">“(d)</span> <div class="content"> To safeguard the privacy of innocent <a aria-label="Definitions - persons" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-991716523-1414135153&term_occur=999&term_src=">persons</a>, the interception of wire or <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communications" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=">oral communications</a> where none of the parties to the communication has consented to the interception should be allowed only when authorized by a court of competent jurisdiction and should remain under the control and supervision of the authorizing court. Interception of wire and <a aria-label="Definitions - oral communications" class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-2051026812-1414135157&term_occur=999&term_src=">oral communications</a> should further be limited to certain major types of offenses and specific categories of crime with assurances that the interception is justified and that the information obtained thereby will not be misused.”</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="note" topic="miscellaneous"><span class="heading centered smallCaps">National Commission for the Review of Federal and State Laws Relating to Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance</span> <p><a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._90-351">Pub. L. 90–351, title III, § 804</a>, <span class="date" date="1968-06-19">June 19, 1968</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/82_Stat._223">82 Stat. 223</a>, as amended by <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._91-452">Pub. L. 91–452, title XII, § 1212</a>, <span class="date" date="1970-10-15">Oct. 15, 1970</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/84_Stat._961">84 Stat. 961</a>; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._91-644">Pub. L. 91–644, title VI, § 20</a>, <span class="date" date="1971-01-02">Jan. 2, 1971</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/84_Stat._1892">84 Stat. 1892</a>; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._93-609">Pub. L. 93–609</a>, §§ 1–4, <span class="date" date="1975-01-02">Jan. 2, 1975</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/88_Stat._1972">88 Stat. 1972</a>, 1973; <a href="/rio/citation/Pub._L._94-176">Pub. L. 94–176</a>, <span class="date" date="1975-12-23">Dec. 23, 1975</span>, <a href="/rio/citation/89_Stat._1031">89 Stat. 1031</a>, established a National Commission for the Review of Federal and<a aria-label="Definitions - State " class="colorbox-load definedterm" href="/definitions/uscode.php?width=840&height=800&iframe=true&def_id=18-USC-80204913-1414135156&term_occur=999&term_src="> State </a>Laws Relating to Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance, provided for its membership, Chairman, powers and functions, compensation and allowances, required the Commission to study and review the operation of the provisions of this chapter to determine their effectiveness and to submit interim reports and a final report to the President and to the <span link="https://liicornell.org/liifedent/congress" occur="3" src="named_federal_agencies">Congress</span> of its findings and recommendations on or before <span class="date" date="1976-04-30">Apr. 30, 1976</span>, and also provided for its termination sixty days after submission of the final report.</p> </div> </div></notes> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="page-bottom" aria-hidden="true"> <div class="region region-bottom"> <div id="block-liidfp-2" class="block block-liidfp first last odd"> <div class="gfs"> <div id="div-gpt-ad-bottom" data-google-query-id="CNH77Z7C7d8CFURLAQodp9oMpg"> <script type="text/javascript"> googletag.cmd.push(function () { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-bottom'); }); </script> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <aside id="supersizeme" class="col-sm-4" aria-label="Sponsor Listings and Toolbox panel"> <div class="block" id="toolbox"> <h2 class="title toolbox"><span class="glyphicon glyphicon-briefcase"></span> U.S. Code Toolbox </h2> <div class="clear-block wexlink"> <a href="/wex/wex_articles">Law about... 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