Real-Time Acquisition of Communications (Interception)
The default rule under § 2511(1): do not
- eavesdrop on others’ communications
- use or disclose illegally intercepted contents
Applies to oral/wire/electronic comms.
Violations may lead to
- criminal penalties (5-year felony) [§ 2511(4)]
- exception for first offense, wireless comms.
- civil damages of $10,000 per violation
- suppression