What is the act that prohibits the interception of communications, including wire and electronic communications?

The Electronic Communication Privacy Act (ECPA) of 1986 is the legislation designed to protect the privacy of electronic communications and prevent unauthorized interception. This act extends the protections offered by the earlier Wiretap Act, which focused on wire communications, to cover electronic communications as well. The ECPA establishes the legal framework for what constitutes unauthorized access to electronic communications, specifically addressing issues related to email and other digital formats.

By prohibiting interception, the ECPA aims to safeguard personal privacy in an increasingly digital world where communications can be easily intercepted without consent. This includes protections against unauthorized access to email content and metadata transmitted via internet services, thereby providing robust privacy rights for individuals and organizations in their electronic communications.

The relevance of the ECPA to modern digital communication is critical, as it sets the standards for permissible surveillance practices by government entities and private parties, requiring a warrant in many cases to access content or records. Overall, the ECPA plays a fundamental role in maintaining privacy in the context of technological advancement and increased email and online communication use.