NSA Purchases Web Browsing Data Without Warrant, Reveals Letter

• NSA admits buying Americans’ browsing data without warrants.
• Senator Wyden deems the practice unlawful, citing privacy concerns.
• NSA defends actions, claiming data is crucial for national security.

U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) has acknowledged buying Americans’ internet browsing information from commercial brokers without obtaining a warrant. The disclosure came through a letter from NSA Director Paul Nakasone to Democratic Senator Ron Wyden, who subsequently made the letter public on Thursday.

Senator Wyden expressed deep concern over the practice, calling on U.S. intelligence officials to cease using Americans’ personal data without explicit knowledge and consent, deeming it unlawful. He highlighted the sensitive nature of the acquired data, emphasizing that it could potentially expose individuals seeking assistance from suicide hotlines or support services for survivors of sexual assault and domestic abuse.

The NSA defended its actions, asserting that the information obtained holds significant value for national security and cybersecurity missions. The agency stated that it employs measures to minimize the collection of U.S. person information, including the application of technical filters.

Wyden, known for his advocacy for privacy and internet freedom, had previously blocked the appointment of incoming NSA Director Timothy Haugh until the agency addressed his inquiries regarding the collection of Americans’ internet and location data.

Nakasone’s letter confirmed the purchases of such data, specifying that it might include information associated with electronic devices used both outside and, in certain cases, inside the United States. The obtained records could reveal details about the websites visited by Americans and the apps they use, potentially violating U.S. Federal Trade Commission standards.

Senator Wyden drew attention to an FTC order earlier in the month that prohibited data broker Outlogic, formerly known as X-Mode Social, from selling sensitive location data used to track individuals. Wyden has now written to the Director of National Intelligence, Avril Haines, requesting that the U.S. intelligence community compile an inventory of all Americans’ personal data held by the NSA and purge any information that does not comply with FTC standards. The revelations have ignited concerns about the balance between national security interests and individual privacy rights.

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