Unauthorised interception to invite prosecution

NEW DELHI, INDIA: The central government Friday said companies and individuals who possess equipment having capabilities of monitoring and surveillance of communication have to file an information to the government within 60 days or they shall be liable for prosecution.

Those who fail to meet the deadline can face imprisonment of up to three years, said the telecom ministry in a statement.

According to the department, some companies including public sector undertakings, private vendors and private detective agencies are establishing and maintaining unauthorised communications network including wireless network for unauthorised monitoring and surveillance of communication.

The companies sometimes import these equipment for demonstration to the law enforcement agencies for short duration, the ministry said.

It also stated that the possession of wireless telegraphy apparatus without licence is an offence.