There are existing legal processes for law enforcement to access communications data so it is wrong to suggest that the Internet is a “safe haven for terrorists”. It is for the intelligence agencies and not service providers to identify potential subjects, and when identified by the authorities CSPs can and do assist in providing communications data under a clear legal process.

The proposal that companies should monitor all communications online runs counter to the legal framework that underpins the Internet, which forbids unwarranted monitoring of customers’ communications.  ISPA and its members are in active discussions around communications data capabilities, including the current Anderson Review, and the ISC’s report adds to the ongoing discussions.