Police used journalists' phone data to detect leaks by staff, report says
Summary
A report found that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) used journalists' phone data to track leaks from its staff. The investigation revealed 21 unlawful cases of surveillance on journalists, primarily occurring before 2015. The review unearthed several issues concerning PSNI's methods, including a lack of legal advice about the practices.Key Facts
- The PSNI used journalists' phone data to detect leaks from its staff.
- A report found 21 unlawful instances of using covert powers to uncover journalists' sources.
- Most surveillance incidents occurred before 2015, involving eight journalists.
- The PSNI did not seek legal advice on the legality of using journalists' phone numbers.
- In 2011, the PSNI checked 65,000 calls against 383 journalists' numbers.
- The practice of using journalists' data formally ended in May 2022.
- Journalists Barry McCaffrey and Trevor Birney were previously arrested, leading to legal actions and damages.
- The independent review suggested PSNI consider reporting to the UK's data protection authority.
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