Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA)

The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) is a U.S. law that protects the privacy of electronic communications, such as emails and phone calls. Enacted in 1986, it sets rules on how government agencies can access these communications and requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant for most types of data. It also safeguards stored communications, ensuring that service providers cannot freely disclose user data. The ECPA aims to balance privacy rights with law enforcement needs, but it has faced criticism for not fully adapting to advances in technology.