one-to-many messaging

[Peter Fairbrother]

Paul Vigay wrote:
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> In a dim and distant universe <47F45E80.5030803@zen.co.uk>,
>    Peter Fairbrother <zenadsl6186@zen.co.uk> enlightened us thusly:
> 
>> Is sending a packet of nuts and bolts by post a communication?
>> Is sending a packet of dirty magazines?
>> If not there is no interception.
> 
> Surely, the definition of "communication" depends upon what is being
> communicated?

Perhaps - but RIPA doesn't define "communication".

> 
> What if there was a long letter inside the packet of nuts and bolts?
> 
> What if you sent a photo album with no note or letter in it?
> 
> How is that different (in terms of intent) to sending a blank email with
> several photos as attachments - other than the actual transmission medium
> (postal vs electronic)?

I don't know what the answer is - but RIPA doesn't define what 
"interception" is when it's postal, and it does when it's electronic.

Another difference is that the SoS can issue a blanket "certificated" 
warrant for external electronic communications 8(4), but he can't do so 
for external postal communications.

I don't know how the Customs people can open postal mail - anyone? It 
would seem to be illegal without a warrant under RIPA if it's a 
communication, but I'm not certain of that.

-- Peter Fairbrother


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