United Kingdom: Home Office opened consultation on Code of Practice for equipment interference

On 8 October 2024, the UK Home Office launched a consultation on a Code of Practice for equipment interference (EI), until 6 January 2025. EI refers to the practice of covertly accessing, collecting, and extracting data from electronic devices, networks, or systems to obtain communications, equipment data, or other information. It sets out the legal framework for conducting EI, requiring targeted and bulk equipment interference warrants that must be approved by the Secretary of State and a Judicial Commissioner. It mandates safeguards to protect privacy, including procedures for authorising, retaining, and securely destroying obtained data. It also outlines special protections for privileged communications, journalists, and members of the legislature. Additionally, the Code details the technical and operational measures for carrying out EI, including collaborative working, oversight by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner, and reporting mechanisms.