Regulation+of+investigatory+powers+act

Regulation of investigatory powers act also known as RIPA is the law governing the use of covert techniques by public authorities

It requires that when public authorities such as the police or government departments need to use covert techniques to obtain private information about someone, they do it in a way that is necessary, proportianate, and compatible with human rights.

RIPA applies to a wide range of investigations in which private information might be obtained. Cases which this applies to include; terrorism, crime, public safety and emergency services.

RIPA's guidelines and codes apply to such actions such as telephone calls, emails or letters as well as private property and vehicles