Service Enables Internet Wiretaps
Cisco is making its new Lawful Intercept Control service, which enables law enforcement to eavesdrop on Internet-based phone calls without fear of detection, available to customers upon request.
Cisco’s Jim Brady reports that the service has been embedded in a “limited number” of products, which have yet to be purchased. He adds that the development of the surveillance standard proceeded without government collaboration; the service was developed in response to requests from ISP and other corporate parties.
The service addresses police concerns about not being able to tap Internet-based phone calls. The Internet Engineering Task Force is currently accepting comments on Cisco’s 37-page proposal on Lawful Intercept Control, which was submitted March 30.
Cisco says customers have the responsibility to comply with wiretapping laws, which for the most part require court authorization for eavesdropping. A mediation device is included that allows a third-party provider to ensure that the tap is adherent to laws.
Abstracted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center(NLECTC) from the USA Today (05/01/03).