10/1 Is it illegal to tape someone without their knowledge?
And if so, why?
\_ In some states, yes. As for why, I'd assume for privacy?
\_ No. Just ask George W. Bush and Albert Gonzales.
\_ No. But if you surreptitiously tape a conversation without
the other person's consent, although the act itself is not
illegal, that evidence is not admissible in court. Unless you
are a law enforcement officer, and it's part of an undercover
sting.
\_ OK, that's *exactly* what I was trying to determine.
Why is that? The best way to get an admission out of
someone is without their knowing it's being recorded;
so why is it inadmissible? -op
\_ Thank Linda Tripp. Following Monica-gate, several states
passed or strengthened existing laws governing wiretapping
without express permission. This is why your phone company
tells you that your help call may be recorded for quality
assurance.
\_ Reference, please. Most sources I've seen say that it's
illegal, period.
\_ You can tape them, just not a phone conversation with them. |