MHA authorizes 10 central agencies to snoop on any computer

A new home ministry order permits investigating agencies to intercept, monitor and decrypt any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer. This means not just calls or emails, but any data found on a computer can be intercepted. The agencies will also have powers to seize the devices.

Shobhit Kalra
Published on: 21 Dec 2018 7:34 AM GMT
MHA authorizes 10 central agencies to snoop on any computer
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New Delhi: A new home ministry order permits investigating agencies to intercept, monitor and decrypt any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer.

This means not just calls or emails, but any data found on a computer can be intercepted. The agencies will also have powers to seize the devices.

Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba has issued an order to 10 central agencies - Intelligence Bureau, Narcotics Control Bureau, National Investigation Agency,Enforcement Directorate, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Central Bureau of Investigation, Cabinet Secretariat (R&AW), Directorate of Signal Intelligence (For service areas of Jammu & Kashmir, North-East and Assam only) and Commissioner of Police.

MHA Order Copy

Issued dated December 20, 2018, the order has been passed under the cyber and information security division of MHA under the sub section (1) of section 69 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

The user or the service provider in charge of any computer resource will be bound to extend all facilities and technical assistance to the agencies, the order said.

Failing to comply with the rules will invite seven-year imprisonment and fine.

Shobhit Kalra

Shobhit Kalra

Writer has 10 years of experience in digital media. Presently working as Chief Sub Editor at newstrack.com. An avid reader and always willing to learn new things and techniques.

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