The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA)

The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) is a U.S. law that protects the privacy of electronic communications, like emails and messages. It restricts how government agencies can access these communications without a warrant. The ECPA covers both stored and real-time communications, ensuring that people's online privacy is respected. However, there are exceptions where law enforcement can access information with a lower standard of proof, leading to ongoing debates about the balance between privacy rights and security needs. Overall, the ECPA plays a crucial role in safeguarding digital privacy in the modern age.