Where there’s a bill Why the legislation matters

What’s the problem? US internet companies cannot by law hand over messages stored on their servers. Does it matter?

Yes. Criminals in the UK could

have their texts intercepted but not their private messages. Any exceptions?

US firms can release them in emergencies and treaties exist, but action can take months. What is being proposed? The Cloud Act removes legal barriers that stop US firms passing data to foreign police. How would it work? UK investigators would secure a warrant signed by a judge, though there are conditions. Does it catch all messages?

No. Plain texts can be caught but not the encrypted ones.