Human Rights and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA)
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) 2000 and Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016
RIPA regulates the way public bodies carry out surveillance, both directly and online, and they way they use covert human intelligence sources (undercover officers). It also ensures there is independent oversight by the law courts.
IPA now governs communication data requests. Communication data can include the address to which a letter is sent, the time and duration of a communication, the telephone number or email address of the originator and recipient, and the location of the device from which the communication was made. It covers electronic communications including internet access, internet telephone calls, instant messaging and the use of applications. It also includes postal services. It does not include the content of any communication. It is not lawfully possible for council employees under any circumstances to obtain the content of communications.
The council’s policies are based on the requirements of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 and the Codes of Practice. The issue of human rights is a consideration of this type of activity and our policies ensure that there are no breaches of an individual’s right to privacy. The Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO) oversee the council’s activities and any complaints can be made to IPCO.
Any activity of this type must be documented and authorised by nominated officers and is reported annually to the council's Audit, compliance and governance committee.
If you have any queries, please contact our designated RIPA coordinator in the counter fraud and enforcement unit at [email protected].