Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is a U.S. law that allows the government to monitor foreign communications for intelligence purposes, particularly to protect national security. Enacted in 1978, it establishes procedures for acquiring electronic surveillance and physical searches involving foreign powers or agents of foreign organizations. FISA aims to strike a balance between national security needs and individuals' privacy rights by requiring government agencies to seek approval from a specialized court for surveillance activities, ensuring oversight and accountability in intelligence gathering.