July 16, 2008
UK. Warning over phone calls database
A central database holding details of everyone's phone calls and emails could be a "step too far for the British way of life", ministers have been warned, reports the BBC.
"Plans for such a database are rumoured to be in the Communications Data Bill.
But Information Commissioner Richard Thomas said "lines must be drawn" to defend "fundamental liberties".
The government says the growth of the internet means changes must be made to the way communications are intercepted in order to combat terrorism and crime.
... Currently police and intelligence agencies can ask telecommunication providers for information on phone calls made, texts sent and internet sites visited. The provider can query the request, which might then go to the interception commissioner and another watchdog - but under the new proposals, that right would be removed."
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