Reference no: EM131574067

Many of you may recall Apple's refusal/reluctance to assist the FBI in providing access (via password or other means of access) to a cell phone purportedly used by the subject of a valid terrorism investigation. The FBI's request was based on valid court authorization to gain such access, but Apple challenged the legality of the court authorization. Ultimately the FBI gained access to the data in the phone, before the issue was adjudicated on appeal. In this discussion identify at least one concern or issue that arises in the context of forcing communication providers or other entities to provide assistance to law enforcement agencies to carry out lawful court orders when they are unable to do so due to technical hurdles. Do note there is a federal law, the Communications Assistance to Law Enforcement Act (aka CALEA), that relates to this problem, but don't be constrained by the technicalities of the law itself. Consider practical, economic, policy or other concerns if you wish. This is a big issue.