National Security Agency

In a flurry of activity on cybersecurity, the U.S. Congress unexpectedly approved four cybersecurity bills that clarify the role of the Department of Homeland Security in private-sector information sharing, codify the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s cybersecurity framework, reform oversight of federal information systems, and enhance the cybersecurity workforce.
Continue Reading In a Surprising Move, Congress Passes Four Cybersecurity Bills

On July 2, 2014, the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board held a public meeting to finalize the release of a report on surveillance implemented under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. The report concludes that the National Security Agency’s collection of electronic communications from targets reasonably believed to be non-U.S. persons located outside the United States has operated lawfully within its statutory limitations.
Continue Reading PCLOB Report Concludes NSA’s Non-U.S. Surveillance Program Is Lawful

On January 28, 2014, Data Protection Day, Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Justice Fundamental Rights and Citizenship Viviane Reding gave a speech in Brussels proposing a new data protection compact for Europe. She focused on three key themes: (1) the need to rebuild trust in data processing, (2) the current state of data protection in the EU, and (3) a new data protection compact for Europe.
Continue Reading Commissioner Reding Calls for New European Data Protection Compact

On January 17, 2014, President Obama delivered a major speech addressing reforms to government intelligence-gathering and surveillance activities. The President discussed the need to advance national security while strengthening protections for privacy and civil liberties, improving transparency in intelligence programs, engaging in continual oversight, and rebuilding trust among foreign leaders and citizens.
Continue Reading President Obama Calls for Major Changes in National Security Surveillance Programs