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.