FBI Did Not Use Email Interception System

A system known as Carnivore was believed to have been used in 2002 or 2003. According to documents that were released via the Freedom of Information Act by the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), the documents have shown that the FBI did not use the controversial email interception system. The group concluded that it did not use Carnivore but "rather utilized commercially available software".

Civil liberty groups all over had a problem with Carnivore like EPIC did because it provides Internet traffic information directly to government officials. The groups were strongly concerned that their privacy would be violated.

Like the situation with pen-traps, the group again brings up a valid point. Had the FBI been using Carnivore, I would have been critical. Flat out there is no need to investigate without probable cause. It's a waste of time if there is no probable cause.